Beznau nuclear power plant: block 2 back on the grid after overhaul

13.09.2023 - Beznau nuclear power plant (KKB) has completed the overhaul of block 2.  The Swiss Federal Nuclear Safety Inspectorate (ENSI) has given its approval for the resumption of operations. KKB 2 will thus start a new operating cycle. The plant will continue providing an essential contribution to the security of supply in Switzerland. 

The overhaul focused on comprehensive maintenance work, periodic tests and inspections. Out of 121 fuel elements, 20 were replaced. The employees of the KKB re-ceived support from several hundred external experts from the region, Switzerland and abroad. 

Following approval by ENSI, KKB 2 returns to power operation with the first turbine group. The second turbine group will follow in the next days due to a delay in the delivery of spare parts. As the plant powers up again, steam will be visible above the non-nuclear part of the plant (engine room) at times. There is no danger to people or the environment. 

The Beznau nuclear power plant produces around 6 terawatt hours of electricity in a safe, reliable and climate-friendly way every year – meeting about one tenth of Swit-zerland’s electricity requirements. The two power plant blocks are taken off grid sep-arately in spring/summer for fuel element replacement or overhaul. They then resume a contribution to Switzerland’s security of supply for around another year, something which is particularly vital in the winter months.