A new project aimed at supporting restoration of safety, security and infrastructure has begun at the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant (NPP). The Chornobyl NPP is the Client for the project, and UTEM-Engineering LLC has been selected as the Consultant, with the contract already signed.
The project is funded through a grant from the International Chernobyl Cooperation Account (ICCA).
On 24 September 2024, a technical visit to the Chornobyl NPP was conducted by representatives of the volunteer organization “Climate Friends for Nuclear Energy”. This group, together with the Norwegian organization “Ukrainian Freedom Convoy” and other civil society groups in Norway, has been actively involved for some time in raising funds to provide essential equipment and resources for the Ukrainian military.
Last week, the Chornobyl NPP hosted a delegation of Ambassadors Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, as well as employees of diplomatic missions accredited in Ukraine. The visit was aimed at familiarization of the diplomats with the current state and processes at ChNPP, as well as to emphasise the importance of international cooperation in the field of nuclear and radiation safety.
During the visit, the guests visited the Unit 3 control room, went to the Shelter object and visited NSC central control room, where they had the opportunity to learn about the technological solutions and safety measures, ensuring the stability of this structure. Special attention was paid to the viewing of the space under the NSC arch.
Chornobyl NPP has received a second part of the humanitarian aid from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) as part of a program to provide medical assistance to operating staff at Ukrainian nuclear power plants. This latest delivery includes 550 new beds complementing the 550 orthopedic mattresses received in early August. The support is aimed at improving the inter-shift rest conditions for Chornobyl NPP personnel who have been working in shifts for more than two years.
The IAEA’s assistance is very important as the new beds will provide the staff with more comfortable resting conditions after their shifts, contributing to enhanced efficiency in their work.
On 29 August 2024, Grant Agreement No. 3 was signed between the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the Chornobyl NPP. This agreement provides for the financing of key works aimed at the safety improving and ChNPP facilities modernisation. The agreement is funded by donors from the International Chernobyl Cooperation Account (ICCA), which is administered by the EBRD.
One of the main areas of works, which will be financed under this agreement, is ISF-1 modernisation. Currently, spent nuclear fuel (SNF) from the first three power units of the Chornobyl NPP is temporarily stored in this storage facility. The main tasks of the modernisation are critically important for ensuring the safety of the facility, taking into account the need for long-term storage of spent nuclear fuel and the difficulties caused by military operations on the territory of Ukraine.