Blizzard Of 2015 Shuts Down Pilgrim Nuclear Station In Plymouth

PLYMOUTH (CBS/AP) -- The Pilgrim Nuclear Station in Plymouth had to temporarily shut down at height of the Blizzard of 2015 because of a power outage, officials said Tuesday.

The state Emergency Management Agency says the plant's emergency diesel generators are supplying power to the safety systems and there is no emergency or danger.

"There is no public safety hazard at this time," said Matt Beaton, the state's Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs.

Read more: Blizzard Of 2015 Leaves Thousands Without Power

Beaton said a similar situation happened during a strong winter storm in 2013.

It was not clear when power would be restored. Beaton said the power plant has a week's supply of fuel for the generators.

Pilgrim issued a statement on the situation Tuesday morning:

"In response to degrading offsite electrical grid conditions during winter storm Juno, Pilgrim initiated a plant downpower to 20% in accordance with plant procedures.

During the downpower, the distribution lines that Pilgrim uses to send electricity to the grid became inoperable due to an offsite issue, and the plant subsequently shut down safely as designed. The plant is currently being powered by the onsite emergency diesel generators and offsite power remains available from the 23KV power supply, if needed.

All safety systems worked as designed. Plant conditions are stable and there is no threat to the safety of plant workers or the public."

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