Romania to Shut Down Nuclear Reactor Unit Due to Drought and Low Danube River Levels

Romania is preparing to temporarily shut down Unit 1 of its Cernavoda nuclear power plant on Tuesday, July 28, 2026. The shutdown is a precautionary measure taken due to the critically low water levels of the Danube River, which are essential for cooling the plant's reactors.

Nuclearelectrica, the state-owned operator, announced the controlled shutdown, emphasizing that it poses no risk to nuclear safety, personnel, or the environment. The company cited the Danube's "very low and unprecedented" levels, a direct consequence of severe drought conditions impacting the region.

The Cernavoda facility houses two reactors, both utilizing Canadian technology, with a combined power output of 706 megawatts each. Together, these units are responsible for supplying approximately 20% of Romania's total electricity production. The decision to halt operations highlights the growing impact of climate change-induced droughts on critical infrastructure.

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The shutdown will be carried out due to the very low and unprecedented level of the Danube, caused by the severe drought.