On-site power system reliability of a nuclear power plant after the earthquake

Abstract

Abstract Continuous and reliable sources of electrical energy are required during all modes of operation of a nuclear power plant in order to assure the safety of the plant. The electrical energy to the safety systems of the nuclear power plant is provided from the on-site power system. The objective of this paper is to analyze the nuclear power plant on-site power system reliability during normal operation and after the earthquakes with given intensity. The obtained results show the importance of the on-site power system reliability in general and battery supported section of the Class 1E power system in particular for the safety of the nuclear power plant. High level of reliability is obtained for the Class 1E and Non-1E power system during normal operation and safe shutdown earthquake. Obtained results show high level of reliability of a Class 1E power system after the earthquake with peak ground acceleration equal to the one measured at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. Recommendation for revision of the current guideline for assessment of the acceptable station blackout duration capability is recommended considering the results of the analysis and identified deficiencies in the current guideline.