Scheduled Shutdown Begins

The planned safety test requires reducing reactor power from the nominal 3,200 MWt. At 01:06, operators begin the gradual power reduction according to the approved programme. The reactor has been operating normally at full power for an extended period, and all parameters are within normal limits.

The test aims to determine whether the spinning-down turbine generator can supply enough electricity to power the main coolant pumps during the 60–75 second gap between a station blackout and diesel generator startup. This test had been attempted unsuccessfully in 1982, 1984, and 1985. New voltage regulators have been installed for this fourth attempt.

The day shift, who have been briefed on the test procedure, begin the power reduction. Everything proceeds normally.