Russia is moving to integrate Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant into its own energy system, a step analysts view as part of broader efforts to consolidate control over the occupied facility.

The initiative appears aimed at creating the technical and regulatory conditions needed to restart electricity generation and redirect power output toward Russia’s grid, The Caspian Post reports via Ukrainian media.

Reports indicate that the Federal Environmental, Industrial and Nuclear Supervision Service (Rostekhnadzor) has been actively working on licensing procedures related to operations at the plant. Russian officials have recently visited the site to discuss safety and operational matters and have signaled plans to issue an operating license for one of the plant’s power units. Licenses for additional units were reportedly granted earlier, while the plant’s administrative structure has been reorganized to align with Russian nuclear management systems.

The Zaporizhzhia plant has been under Russian control since early 2022, a situation that Ukraine and its international partners consider illegal under international law. Analysts note that Moscow has repeatedly sought to formalize its control through administrative, regulatory, and technical measures.

The facility remains a focal point of international concern due to persistent safety risks and its strategic importance to regional energy supply. Diplomatic discussions have at times included proposals for joint or international management of the plant, though Ukraine has firmly rejected such options.

Meanwhile, temporary local ceasefire arrangements have allowed limited repairs to damaged power infrastructure around the site. Observers say the future operation and control of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant remain closely tied to broader geopolitical tensions surrounding the conflict.