Romania has taken a significant step towards enhancing its nuclear energy capabilities by approving the construction of its inaugural small modular reactor (SMR) facility. The decision, made by shareholders of Nuclearelectrica, centers around a 462 MW project located in Doicești, Dâmbovița County, utilizing technology developed by NuScale Power. This initiative is a critical component of Romania’s broader strategy to expand its nuclear energy resources.
To facilitate this project, shareholders have authorized financing up to $243 million for RoPower Nuclear, the joint venture between Nuclearelectrica and Nova Power & Gas. An initial allocation of $6 million is earmarked for early engineering and procurement activities, while the pre-engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) budget has escalated to approximately $600 million. RoPower plans to implement a phased procurement strategy, beginning with one 77 MW module out of a total of six planned units. Subsequent orders will depend on the performance of the first module, thereby transferring some risk to the supplier.
The updated timeline indicates that the first module is expected to commence operations by July 2033, with the complete six-unit facility projected for completion in December 2034. Although this timeline reflects delays from earlier expectations, it underscores a more prudent approach to project management and risk mitigation.
Originally proposed in 2021, this SMR project has garnered international attention and support. In 2024, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) provided a favorable site review, which bolstered confidence in the project’s feasibility. Furthermore, RoPower signed a front-end engineering and design agreement with Fluor Corporation, which holds a majority stake in NuScale. With this investment decision finalized, Romania positions itself as one of Europe’s early adopters of commercial SMR technology, aiming not only to diversify its energy portfolio but also to enhance long-term energy security.
