- Shutdown after malfunction at Swiss power plant Beznau
A malfunction in the world's oldest operating nuclear power plant, located near the German border, has triggered an automatic shutdown. The malfunction occurred in a steam generator in the non-nuclear part of the Swiss facility, Axpo energy company announced.
Steam was briefly visible above the plant. There was no risk to humans or the environment, the company assured. Block 1 was automatically disconnected from the grid and is in a safe state.
In operation for over 50 years
Beznau Block 1 began operation in 1969. It had only recently returned to the grid after a multi-week overhaul in June. The Swiss Federal Nuclear Safety Inspectorate ENSI has been informed, Axpo said.
The nuclear power plant is located south of Waldshut-Tiengen in Baden-Württemberg and is less than seven kilometers from the German border.
Despite the malfunction leading to its temporary disconnection, Beznau Block 1's non-nuclear components, including the power plant, remained functional. The surrounding community and environment continue to benefit from the clean energy generated by this long-operating power plant, which started service in 1969.
