The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine has been operating without off-site power for more than a week and is currently relying on emergency diesel generators, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The plant, which has six reactors shut down since 2022, requires external electricity to maintain cooling systems essential for nuclear safety.

The IAEA reported that the plant’s diesel reserves are sufficient for about ten days and noted that deliveries to an off-site storage facility have not occurred for approximately six months. However, diesel fuel was supplied from an alternative off-site location on Thursday and Friday to help sustain operations.

“The availability of diesel fuel is of paramount importance whenever a nuclear power plant loses off-site power,” IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said, emphasizing the critical role of reliable external electricity and secure supply routes for nuclear safety and security.

The loss of regular power supply occurred amid military activity on the northern side of the Dnipro River, which runs near the plant and serves as a frontline in the ongoing conflict between Ukrainian and Russian forces. The IAEA is currently pursuing negotiations for a local ceasefire aimed at facilitating repairs to damaged electrical transmission lines.

The Zaporizhzhia plant, located in southern Ukraine, was taken over by Russian forces in March 2022 shortly after the invasion began. Both Ukraine and Russia have accused each other of attacks on the site. In a recent development, the IAEA confirmed that three drone-related incidents were reported at the plant during the past week, resulting in injuries to two workers and heightening concerns around safety.

Since September 2022, IAEA personnel have maintained a continuous presence at the facility to monitor conditions. Despite the reactors being shut down, the plant’s infrastructure remains vulnerable due to its strategic location and the ongoing hostilities in the region.