Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant Relies on Emergency Generators Following External Power CutMoscow, 20 Aug 2026 (ONA) — The management of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine, which is under Russian control, announced today that the facility has switched to using backup diesel generators designated for emergency use, following the interruption of external power supplies due to damage to a high-voltage power line.The Moscow-appointed administration stated that plant personnel are monitoring equipment operating parameters and that all necessary measures are being taken to maintain the safety of the power-generating units, affirming that radiation levels at the plant remain within normal limits.The Zaporizhzhia plant, which houses six reactors, is the largest of its kind in Europe. It has been offline from electricity production for some time, but requires an external power source to operate safety systems and maintain cooling for the nuclear fuel.The plant relies on external power lines to supply the necessary energy for its cooling systems, while diesel generators serve as a backup source in the event of a loss of external supply.Russian forces took control of the plant in the early weeks of the war in Ukraine in 2022. Since then, Moscow and Kyiv have exchanged accusations regarding attacks or military activities that could jeopardise the safety of the nuclear facility.— Ends/AH