Turbo-alternator at Russian N-plant switched off due to flaws

"The turbo-alternator was switched off as faults had appeared in the operation of the power unit's generator initiation system," she said. "It will be re-connected to the grid once the technological flaw is eliminated."

"Upon preliminary estimates, this technological event is classified as Level Zero or 'Below Scale' on the International Nuclear and Radiological Event Scale /INES/," Shchepotyeva said. "This means there's no risk for the power plant or its personnel."

"There've been no violations in the plant's operational procedures and hence there are no radiological consequences," she said.

According to Itar-Tass, the radiation background on the compound of the plant is within the normal parametrical readings.

Shchepotyeva recalled that the Kursk plant's power units No. 1, 3 and 4 are currently in operation. Power unit No. 2 was shut down for a scheduled technological overhaul April 22.

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