Nuclear electric failure in Brazil

Blackout occurs at Brazilian nuclear power station

Brazil’s nuclear power station located in the southeastern state of Rio de Janeiro has reported an electric failure, causing a blackout in one of its two reactors, according to official sources Friday.

NZ Week,

20 April, 2013

Brazil’s state-owned Eletrobras, which is in charge of the nuclear power station, said the blackout occurred Thursday and the cause of the incident is being investigated.

Electrobras said the affected reactor of Angra dos Reis 1 will only be reconnected once it’s fully guaranteed that the station will operate normally.

The nuclear power station, with Angra dos Reis 1 and 2 reactors in Angra dos Reis city, produces three percent of the country’s total electricity.

Electrobras affirmed the blackout did not cause any risk for the population.

A recent report from an expert committee has recommended several improvements in Angra dos Reis nuclear station to avoid possible problems in case of flooding, earthquakes or other natural disasters.