KKB 2 back on the grid after refuelling

20.08.24 - Following successful refuelling, Axpo reconnected unit 2 of the Beznau nuclear power plant (KKB) to the grid yesterday. With the new loading of the reactor core, KKB 2 is starting a new operating cycle - and will make its important contribution to security of supply in Switzerland over the coming months.

Unit 2 was taken offline as planned on 6 August 2024 for refuelling. Over the past two weeks, the specialists at KKB have replaced 20 of the 121 fuel assemblies in the reactor core. The new core load was verified by the International Atomic Energy Agency and the Swiss Federal Office of Energy. In addition, inspection work, system tests and planned maintenance work were carried out on individual components. KKB employees were supported by around 150 external specialists.

Following approval by the Swiss Federal Nuclear Safety Inspectorate ENSI, KKB 2 has now gradually resumed power operation. The plant will reach full load in around two days. 

During the restart, water vapour is occasionally visible above the non-nuclear part of the plant (turbine hall). There is no danger to people or the environment.

The Beznau nuclear power plant produces around 6 terawatt hours of electricity safely and reliably every year - covering a tenth of Switzerland's electricity requirements. The two power plant units are taken off grid each spring/summer for refuelling or maintenance. They then make their important contribution to security of supply in Switzerland for around a year - not least during the winter months.