Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant Reconnected to Ukraine’s Grid After Month-Long Blackout

The Ukrainian grid operator energized the repaired Dniprovska 750 kV line at 09:30 local time, with full site power by 13:00 and the last diesel generators shut down. IAEA teams observed demining and technical repairs in ceasefire zones, including replacement of broken cables, a tower support arm and multiple insulators. This was the tenth complete loss of off-site power at the plant during the conflict and the longest, lasting exactly one month. Work continues on the 330 kV Ferosplavna-1 backup line after additional damage was identified outside the ceasefire area, with the IAEA coordinating access for further repairs. Ukraine blames Russian occupation forces for repeated line damage and says crews have restored connections 42 times since 2022, while the shut-down reactors still require constant power for cooling and spent-fuel safety.