Technical assessment keeps Unit 2 connected
Romania’s Cernavoda nuclear plant will keep Unit 2 connected to the grid after a technical assessment concluded the reactor can continue operating safely despite exceptionally low Danube levels. The decision follows drought conditions affecting river water availability used for cooling.
Nuclearelectrica had previously indicated that Unit 2 might be shut down after Unit 1 was disconnected under the same drought scenario. The revised approach preserves a substantial block of low-carbon generation while regional electricity demand remains high.
Enhanced monitoring and potential short-notice disconnection
Both Cernavoda units are under enhanced monitoring. Operating parameters, cooling-water conditions and nuclear-safety margins are assessed continuously using procedures designed for severe drought.
Unit 2 will remain online while the relevant criteria are met, but it could be disconnected at short notice if the Danube level falls further. The operational arrangement is therefore conditional rather than permanent.
Power balance implications and demand response request
The decision reduces immediate pressure on Romania’s power balance. If both reactors were lost, the system would need to rely more heavily on gas-fired generation, renewable output, battery storage and imports.
Interim Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan had already asked households and large industrial consumers to cut electricity use during the evening peak. The request was made in preparation for the possible loss of both reactors, when solar generation declines and regional import availability is limited.
Regional supply chain pressures involving Hungary and Bulgaria
Romania’s supply options include hydro, gas, coal, wind and rapidly expanding solar capacity. Combined availability remains weather-dependent, and imported electricity may become more expensive when Hungary is also seeking additional volumes.
Keeping Unit 2 online supports not only Romania but the broader SEE market. Romanian exports toward Hungary have increased sharply as reduced generation at Paks expands the Hungarian deficit, while Romania has been importing larger volumes from Bulgaria, creating a northbound regional supply chain.
Drought risk links Cernavoda and Paks constraints
Cernavoda’s safety procedures take precedence over market requirements. A further deterioration in Danube conditions would trigger a controlled shutdown regardless of price effects.
The simultaneous pressure on Paks and Cernavoda highlights how hydrological risk can affect nuclear generation across central and south-eastern Europe. Low river levels can constrain baseload assets beyond hydropower production .
