Romania is preparing to implement an emergency engineering project on the Danube River to ensure the continued operation of the Cernavodă Nuclear Power Plant, which generates around 20% of the country's electricity. Due to severe drought and record-low water levels, the authorities plan to sink four stone-filled barges to alter the river's flow and increase the volume of water reaching the plant's cooling water intake.

The crisis has been caused by prolonged heat and an almost complete lack of rainfall across the Danube basin. Water discharge in the river has fallen to approximately one-third of the average level for August, putting the cooling system of the Cernavodă reactors at risk. One of the plant's two reactors has already been taken offline for scheduled maintenance, while the remaining reactor could also be forced to shut down if water levels continue to decline.

Romania Blasts Rock Formation in the Danube to Save the Cernavodă Nuclear Power Plant

Romanian authorities have already carried out controlled blasting operations in the Bala Channel, removing a rocky obstacle to redirect additional water into the main course of the Danube. The next phase involves sinking four barges loaded with stone to create an artificial barrier that will increase the volume of water reaching the nuclear plant's cooling system. The operation was initially scheduled for August 6 but was postponed due to unsafe conditions. According to specialists, the measure could extend the remaining reactor's operation by approximately 9–10 days, compared with only 5–6 days without intervention.

Romania's acting Prime Minister has declared a heightened state of alert in the energy sector and urged households, public institutions, and businesses to reduce electricity consumption during peak hours. The government has also warned that temporary restrictions on electricity use for large industrial consumers may be introduced if the situation deteriorates.

 

The situation highlights the broader impact of drought across Central and Southeastern Europe. Low water levels on the Danube are already disrupting navigation, reducing hydroelectric power generation, and creating risks for the region's energy security. Similar challenges are being faced by Hungary, Serbia, and Bulgaria, where the shrinking water levels of one of Europe's largest rivers are affecting both transport infrastructure and electricity production.

#ROMANIA

07.08.2026 05:33