Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant: Russia Eyes Restart, Potential Electricity Supply to Ukraine

Russia intends to supervise the resumption of work and operation of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) when security conditions permit, while also expressing willingness to discuss supplying electricity to Ukraine, according to Alexei Likhachev, head of Russia’s state nuclear corporation Rosatom [Reuters].

Disagreements Over Plant Status

These remarks highlight ongoing disagreements between Moscow and Kyiv regarding the status of the ZNPP, which Russian forces seized in the early weeks of the 2022 war. The plant’s future remains a key point of contention in peace negotiations [Reuters].

Restarting the Plant and Licensing

All six reactors at the ZNPP are currently in cold shutdown and being kept cooled for safety. However, preparations are underway to restart them when security conditions allow. Rosatom has already issued operating licenses for two reactor blocks, with a third expected soon and preparations are being made for the remaining units [NEI Magazine].

“We are ready to resume work, the necessary equipment is available,” Likhachev stated after a meeting with Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). “As soon as the opportunity arises, we will start the commissioning and operation of the plant under the supervision of the IAEA,” he added [NEI Magazine].

Potential Electricity Supply to Ukraine and Beyond

Rosatom envisions a scenario where it operates the plant, but the commercial aspects could be considered multilaterally. Likhachev indicated a willingness to discuss supplying electricity to Ukraine under certain conditions [EADaily]. He also suggested potential new partners, including the United States, for utilizing the plant’s 6 gigawatt capacity [EADaily].

Moscow is open to considering an international and multilateral format for the use of electricity generated at the ZNPP [EADaily].

Addressing Safety Concerns

The issue of physical protection of the ZNPP was a primary focus during consultations with the IAEA [EADaily]. Rosatom has rejected accusations from Ukraine’s Energoatom that it lacks the necessary equipment to safely operate the plant [Independent], stating it has the capacity to produce required equipment and fuel [Independent].

Rosatom maintains that continued shelling in the area remains the key issue affecting nuclear safety at the plant [Independent].

Key Takeaways

• Russia aims to restart the Zaporizhzhia NPP when safe, under IAEA supervision.
• Rosatom is prepared to discuss supplying electricity to Ukraine and other partners.
• The plant’s future remains a central point in negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.
• Ensuring the physical protection of the plant is a top priority.