In case of lack of water for ZNPP cooling, there is action algorithm - Energoatom

The explosion of Kakhovka HPP does not directly affect the operation of Zaporizhzhia NPP. An algorithm of measures for the operation of the plant and personnel has been developed in case the water of the Kakhovka reservoir is not enough to recharge the cooling pond.

The President of Energoatom Petro Kotin said this in the telethon "United News", Ukrinform reports.

"ZNPP is operating, but I cannot say that everything is in order when it has been occupied by Russians for a long time. The degradation of the station continues, starting with the equipment and ending with the presence of military, weapons and equipment on the site. At night, the Russians blew up the Kakhovka hydroelectric power plant, which is another deterioration of the situation related to ZNPP. At present, we do not assess it as critical for the plant, as it is cooled by its own cooling pond, which is separated from the Kakhovka reservoir, where a sufficient water level is stored," he said.

Kotin clarified that in this context, there is a question of feeding the turbine condensers and safety systems of the ZNPP, because, in case of a decrease in water in the cooling pond, the necessary volumes were previously filled with the help of the Kakhovka reservoir.

"However, this situation is a design issue and is provided for in the design of the nuclear power plant. There is a developed algorithm of measures for the work of ZNPP and personnel in case the water of the Kakhovka reservoir is withdrawn. Therefore, we confirm the IAEA's statements that there is no direct and immediate threat to the nuclear power plant, but the level of degradation continues to grow," Kotin added.

As reported, Russian troops blew up the Kakhovka HPP. As a result of the explosion of the engine room from the inside, the station was completely destroyed. Due to the explosion of the reservoir, there is a risk of flooding of energy facilities in Kherson region, including Kherson CHP. Almost 12,000 consumers in the city (Ostrov district) have already lost power, and there may be problems with water supply. Evacuation of the population from potential flood areas has now begun.