Nuclear plant in occupied Ukraine using emergency generators to cool reactors

By Mike Glenn - The Washington Times - Thursday, September 3, 2026

The head of the U.N.’s nuclear watchdog agency said a major Ukrainian atomic power plant is relying on emergency diesel generators after being without off-site power for two weeks.

The Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia power plant lost its only connection to an off-site power line on Aug. 20 due to military activity along the northern side of the Dnipro River.

Since then, the plant has been using diesel generators to supply electricity for the pumps that cool the plant’s six reactors and spent fuel pools, said Rafael Mariano Grossi, the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency.

“The availability of diesel fuel is of paramount importance whenever a nuclear power plant loses off-site power, as is the ability to maintain uninterrupted logistical supply chains to and from the site,” Mr. Grossi said last week. “The current situation once again shows why reliable external power and secure supply routes are indispensable for nuclear safety and security.”

Although the Zaporizhzhia plant is under Russian control, IAEA officials are at the site to monitor safety conditions and help prevent a major nuclear disaster during the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.

Mr. Grossi said they are closely monitoring the site’s ability to continue relying on diesel generators for an extended period.

“Without the restoration of off-site power or additional diesel fuel deliveries in the near future, the plant could face a station blackout within approximately ten days,” he said.

Officials said the IAEA is attempting to establish another localized ceasefire zone to allow for repairs to the power line as soon as possible.

The IAEA team at the site is continuing to hear nearby military activity, including explosions, several times a day. Officials said they have received reports of fighting in the nearby city of Enerhodar, where many plant workers live.

“Attacks that threaten nuclear power plant staff or strike areas related to the spent fuel storage or cooling pond are unacceptable and must stop,” Mr. Grossi said. “Even when there is no impact on nuclear material, such incidents carry serious risks for nuclear safety and security.”