CNSU extends the state of alert in Cernavodă due to drought and the risk of an energy crisis

The National Committee for Emergency Situations has extended by 30 days the state of alert concerning the operation of the Cernavodă Nuclear Power Plant. The decision was published in the Official Gazette on the evening of October 28, 2026, at the proposal of the authorities responsible for the safety of the energy system.

The decision is based on the continued low level of the Danube at the country’s entry point and the impossibility of restarting Units 1 and 2 of the plant during November. The two reactors were shut down in a controlled manner this summer because of the severe drought: Unit 1 on July 28 and Unit 2 on August 13.

Authorities warn that the risk of a crisis in electricity supply persists, amid insufficient power and energy reserves to balance the system during peak periods. In October, the Danube’s level fell to as low as minus 259 centimeters, just three centimeters above the operational safety limit, set at minus 262 centimeters.

Transelectrica must take all necessary measures to ensure the operation of the National Power System, including increasing production from available sources, securing imports and, if necessary, reducing consumption. The drought is also affecting hydropower production, while shorter days and cloud cover are limiting photovoltaic output.