Army blasts rock to cool nuclear plant as Romania faces energy collapse

Romania's army has carried out an underwater explosion to dislodge a rock in a Danube tributary, aiming to boost water levels for cooling the country's sole nuclear power plant. The nation is grappling with an energy crisis exacerbated by a severe drought, which has drastically reduced the Danube's water flow.

The Cernavoda Nuclear Power Plant, responsible for approximately 20% of Romania's electricity supply, relies entirely on the Danube for cooling. Critically low water levels forced the shutdown of one of its two reactors in late July, with the second reactor also facing the threat of closure. The detonation, conducted near Izvoarele, is intended to channel more water to the plant located in the eastern part of the country.

Defense Minister Radu Miruta declared the operation a success, expressing hope that it would provide sufficient water for the plant. He noted that the rock had been a persistent obstacle for the army for 30 years. Should this measure fail, the second reactor would have to be shut down by Thursday. The Danube is currently flowing at only one-third of its average volume for this time of year, with further decreases expected.

The energy crisis has also impacted hydropower, another key pillar of Romania's electricity generation. The country has been urged to conserve energy as both nuclear and hydro sectors struggle under the extreme heat and drought conditions.