KKB: unit 2 off grid for fuel element replacement

06.08.24 - Today, Axpo took unit 2 of Beznau Nuclear Power Plant (KKB) off grid for the scheduled replacement of fuel elements. After 329 days of operation the plant will now be inactive for around two weeks.

The shutdown of unit 2 marks the end of the production cycle that began on September 12, 2023. In this period, unit 2 produced around 2.8 billion kilowatt hours of electricity. This corresponds to the average annual consumption of 620 000 fourperson households.

During the two-week shutdown KKB specialists will replace 20 of a total of 121 fuel elements in the reactor core. They will also carry out recurrent checks and system tests. The 500-member staff at Beznau Nuclear Power Plant will pe assisted by around 150 external experts.

As the plant powers down, steam will be visible above the turbine hall (non-nuclear part of the plant). There is no danger to people or the environment. The fuel element replacement is overseen by the Swiss Federal Nuclear Safety Inspectorate (ENSI).

The Beznau Nuclear Power Plant produces around 6 terawatt hours of electricity, safely and reliably, everY year. This meets about one tenth of Switzerland’s power requirements. The two power plant units are taken off grid separately in spring/summer for fuel element replacement or revision. They then resume their contribution to Switzerland’s security of supply, which is particularly vital in the winter months.