Remote transmission of data from Chernobyl NPP fully re-established - IAEA

KYIV. May 12 (Interfax) - Remote transmission of safeguards data from Ukraine's Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) has been fully re-established, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said on its website on Wednesday, citing IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi.

"This resulted from the deployment of new transmission channels based on satellite technologies and of other technical work conducted by the Agency since the visit of safeguards inspectors and technicians to the Chernobyl NPP, 26-27 April 2022," Grossi said.

"This is a very important step for the IAEA to continue to implement safeguards in Ukraine," Director General Grossi said

Implementing safeguards also includes in-field verification activities, Grossi said, adding that the situation at the Zaporizhzhya NPP continues to be challenging.

"Although the IAEA continues to adjust its safeguards activities, the situation is unsustainable. I have therefore proposed to lead a visit to Zaporizhzhya NPP, including safeguards inspectors and nuclear safety and security experts, after the necessary consultations and at the earliest possible opportunity," he added.

Seven out of Ukraine's 15 operational reactors at four NPPs are currently connected to the grid, including two at the Zaporizhzhya NPP, two at the Rivne NPP, two at the South Ukraine NPP, and one at the Khmelnytskyi NPP.

The eight other reactors are shut down for regular maintenance or held in reserve. Safety systems remain operational at all four NPPs, and they also continue to have off-site power available.

Tm ek

(Our editorial staff can be reached at eng.editors@interfax.ru)