The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has expressed 'deep concern' after a fire broke out at a critical electrical substation near the South Ukraine Nuclear Power Plant, temporarily disrupting its power supply. The incident occurred on Friday at the Dniprovska 750-kilovolt electrical substation, which Ukraine attributed to 'military activity,' according to the UN nuclear watchdog.
Partial Disconnection of Power
Ukraine informed the IAEA that the fire led to the partial disconnection of the South Ukraine Nuclear Power Plant from its off-site power supplies. This was carried out at the request of the grid operator as a precautionary measure. Firefighting crews remain deployed at the substation to suppress the flames.
IAEA Director General's Response
Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the IAEA, voiced alarm over the situation, underscoring that such substations are 'critical for nuclear safety.' He stressed that these facilities must never be targeted under any circumstances. The IAEA affirmed it will continue to monitor the situation closely.
In a statement, the IAEA said: 'The IAEA has been informed by Ukraine that a fire broke out at the Dniprovska 750 kilovolt electrical substation today due to military activities. As a result, an operating nuclear power plant - South Ukraine - was partially disconnected from its off site power supplies at the request of the grid operator. Firefighters are currently deployed at the substation to suppress the fire.'
The incident highlights ongoing risks to nuclear infrastructure amid the conflict in Ukraine. The IAEA has repeatedly called for the protection of nuclear facilities and related infrastructure to prevent a potential radiological disaster.
