The Cernavodă nuclear power plant could remain shut down in November, while costly imports could drive up Romanian consumers’ bills

The Cernavodă nuclear power plant could remain shut down in November 2026 due to the low flow of the Danube, which does not allow the reactors to be cooled safely. Romania is therefore facing a major production shortfall and may have to purchase electricity at high prices on external markets.

Unit 1 was shut down on July 28, while Unit 2 was shut down on August 13, amid the prolonged drought. Hydrological forecasts do not indicate that water levels will be sufficient to restart the reactors in November. At the same time, hydropower and photovoltaic output is being affected by the lack of rainfall and shorter days.

The government intends to extend the special measures for Transelectrica until November 30. The operator will be able to limit consumption by major industrial consumers and halt exports during periods of acute shortages.

At peak hours, national consumption can reach 8,500 MW, while domestic production will not cover demand. Imports are also complicated by the shutdown of nuclear capacity in Bulgaria, Hungary and the Czech Republic. Balancing and procurement costs could be passed on to consumers’ bills during the cold season.