Nuclearelectrica has begun importing electricity sourced from Ukraine through Energocom, using the Moldova route to offset lost generation from Cernavoda unit 1. The imports are part of a cooperation framework set out in a 2023 memorandum of understanding between Nuclearelectrica and Energocom. The arrangement is intended to support mutual assistance and closer regional energy cooperation.
Romania’s imports come while the country remains under an energy alert for August. Low Danube levels have reduced domestic generation and increased pressure on the cooling-water supply serving Cernavoda.
Cooling-water constraints and Cernavoda unit 2 status
Nuclearelectrica said Cernavoda unit 2 remained online after a technical review completed on 30 July. The review concluded the reactor could continue operating within nuclear-safety limits. The operator is monitoring cooling-water availability and other operating parameters continuously, while noting the reactor could still be shut if river conditions deteriorate further.
Danube inflows at Baziaș were forecast to fall to about 1,450 cubic metres per second by 6 August. This compares with long-term averages of approximately 4,700 cubic metres per second in July and 3,900 cubic metres per second in August. The projected August flow was therefore around 63% below the historical monthly average.
River conditions were expected to stay close to those levels until approximately 10-12 August, followed by a possible gradual recovery. The drought continuing at the time made the timing and strength of any improvement uncertain.
Cross-border balancing during evening demand
The Ukrainian supply route provides Romania with additional coverage during the evening demand period. However, it cannot fully replace a large nuclear unit without sufficient interconnection capacity and available exportable power. Romania also needs to balance imports from Bulgaria with exports towards Hungary and Moldova.
Nuclearelectrica’s decision links nuclear availability, hydrological conditions and cross-border trading within Romania’s security-of-supply response. The operator’s actions reflect how regional cooperation can be integrated into plant-level operational risk management under current constraints.
