The construction of new power units at KhNPP will allow replacing the capacities of the Zaporizhzhia NPP occupied by russia. This was stated by the Minister of Energy of Ukraine German Galushchenko.
He noted that nuclear generation played a leading role for Ukraine and provided more than 50% of electricity. After the de-occupation of ZNPP, Ukraine will require a certain amount of time to return the plant to full operation. At the same time, ZNPP’s capacity will be replaced by new power units at Khmelnytsky NPP, which are currently under construction.
“We are guided by the fact that the economy and consumption will grow, so we need additional capacity. Nuclear power is important, it provides basic generation, does not depend on the weather and constantly produces kilowatts. It is essential for the industry. I don’t see that anything should stop us during the war,” the Minister of Energy stressed.
The minister noted that the situation at ZNPP was rather complicated, including due to regular shelling of the surrounding areas by russia.
German Galushchenko also recalled that as a result of russian attacks on the Ukrainian energy sector in November 2022, all Ukrainian nuclear power plants were simultaneously cut off and switched to diesel generators.
“In this case, the word “terrorism” is too gentle. Because if something happens, it will have an impact on the whole world. I wouldn’t like to see a nuclear accident happen, and then everyone starts saying “we were worried”. This is the worst case scenario. But there is another way – sanctions against rosatom,” the minister said. (Government portal)
