Low Danube Water Levels Force Romania's Cernavoda Nuclear Plant Offline

Romania's sole nuclear power plant, Cernavoda, has ceased operations temporarily because of critically low water levels in the Danube River. State Secretary Sorin Elisei of the Romanian Energy Ministry announced on Thursday that the plant's two reactors have stopped, forcing the country to rely on increased electricity imports, mainly from Bulgaria.

The first reactor was shut down last week, and the second followed on Thursday. This shutdown began after a high state of alert was declared in the energy sector on July 31 due to declining electricity production amid a severe drought. The government is now closely monitoring weather forecasts for potential impacts on supply and is also relying on hydro energy reserves and voluntary reductions in electricity consumption.

“

The Cernavoda nuclear power plant has completely ceased operations, leaving Romania reliant on increased electricity imports, mainly from Bulgaria, while closely monitoring weather forecasts that could affect supply estimates.

Cernavoda nuclear power plant, located on the Danube, uses river water for cooling. Its two reactors typically contribute about 20 percent of Romania's total electricity production. Plant Director Romeo Urjan had previously stated that the plant would be out of service for at least 10 days, with an additional one to two days needed for full operation once water levels rise.

The situation highlights the vulnerability of energy infrastructure to climate conditions. Neighboring Hungary's Paks nuclear power plant is also operating at reduced capacity due to insufficient cooling water from its river source.

“

The plant would be out of service for at least 10 days. Once the Danube water level rises, it will take one to two days for the plant to return to full operation.