Decommissioning work continues on reactors at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant
Preparatory work for the decommissioning process of the three undamaged reactor units at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant is targeted for completion by the end of 2028.
Preparations for the decommissioning and dismantling of the intact first, second, and third units of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant are progressing as planned.
Current Status of Preparatory Work
Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant officials reported that preparatory work carried out for the next phase of dismantling the three intact reactor units of the facility will be completed by the end of 2028.
In a statement made by the plant management, it was noted that preparations are 94 percent complete in the second unit, while this rate is at the level of 44 percent in the first unit.
Physical Operations to be Carried Out
It was stated that planning work continues for the third unit and physical operations are scheduled to begin in 2027.
The current process covers the dismantling of systems and components, the removal of thermal insulation, the clearing of cables, and the sealing of wall penetrations.
Process Carried Out by In-House Personnel
Maksym Protsenko, Director of the Chernobyl Nuclear Engineering Center, announced that these works are carried out by the plant's own personnel.
Protsenko emphasized that this approach ensures full compliance with national regulations and international standards.
Stages of the Decommissioning Process
The current works constitute the second phase of the four-stage decommissioning plan, which covers the final shutdown and containment of the reactor facilities.
The first phase was completed in 2015, with all units taken offline and their nuclear fuel transferred to the spent fuel storage facility.
Long-Term Safe Storage
After the current phase is completed, additional contractor work such as height reductions and the dismantling of lifting mechanisms will be carried out.
Following the decline of radioactivity levels to acceptable levels, the transition to the long-term safe storage phase is planned for 2034.
Status of the Fourth Unit
The status of the fourth unit, which was destroyed in the 1986 accident, differs from the other units and continues to house the molten core.
The New Safe Confinement, built after the damaged old protective cover and designed with a lifespan of approximately 100 years, ensures the maintenance of safety at the facility.