Energy problems due to low Danube water levels: Which European countries are most affected?

Central and southeastern Europe are grappling with an energy crisis fueled by a historic drought, record heat, and critically low water levels in the Danube River. Hungary and Romania face the brunt of this situation, teetering on the brink of an energy emergency, while nations like Bulgaria remain more resilient.

Hungary is experiencing its most severe energy crisis in decades. With rainfall scarce for months and temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius in many areas, the Danube's record low levels have forced the Paks nuclear power plant to operate at just 12% capacity. The plant requires sufficient cooling water, but the river's temperature is too high. If water levels continue to drop, a complete shutdown is possible. The government has urged major consumers, including companies like Audi and MOL, to conserve energy, leading some to reduce production.

The crisis is exacerbated by Hungary's energy mix. Paks generates about half of the country's electricity, but the lack of energy storage systems, modern gas plants, and significant wind or hydropower capacity means the country heavily relies on nuclear and solar power. Even after the Danube's water levels rise, restarting the Paks reactors will take time, forcing Hungary to import expensive electricity for weeks.

Romania faces a similar, though less severe, crisis. Its Cernavodă nuclear power plant, also situated on the Danube, produces roughly one-fifth of the country's electricity. One of its two 700-megawatt blocks was recently shut down due to low water levels, impacting energy production. The drought's effects extend beyond energy, with agriculture suffering significant crop yield reductions and transportation, particularly river traffic, facing severe limitations.