The Zaporozhye nuclear power plant, Europe’s largest facility of its kind, has restored off-site electricity supply after 30 days of relying on backup generators, according to plant management. The disruption began in late September when Ukrainian forces severed the last remaining high-voltage transmission line, forcing the site to operate on emergency diesel generators.

Engineers have reconnected the Dneprovskaya power line, though repairs on another damaged grid connection from May remain ongoing. The plant described the prolonged reliance on backup systems as “unprecedented in nuclear power history,” emphasizing the risks of such extended operation.

Russian officials credited the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for facilitating a ceasefire that enabled repair work. However, Ukrainian Energy Minister Svetlana Grinchuk confirmed the line’s restoration while blaming Russia for the initial damage.

The facility, located in the Zaporozhye Region—which declared allegiance to Russia in 2022—has been a focal point of conflict. Russian authorities have accused Ukrainian forces of repeatedly shelling the area, calling such actions reckless and dangerous. The IAEA maintains observers at the site but has avoided assigning blame for attacks, a stance Moscow claims emboldens further provocations.

The plant’s cold shutdown status persists, with electricity still required to ensure safety measures.