Romania has restored 700 MW of nuclear generation capacity after Unit 1 of the Cernavoda Nuclear Power Plant returned to commercial operation following a scheduled maintenance outage. The restart strengthens the country’s electricity supply position and improves system flexibility, particularly during periods when renewable output declines.
The reactor, operated by Nuclearelectrica, was disconnected from the grid on 10 May for a planned maintenance programme lasting approximately two months. The works included preventive and corrective maintenance, mandatory safety inspections, equipment testing, and modernization activities on selected plant systems to ensure continued reliable operation.
According to Nuclearelectrica, all maintenance activities were completed in accordance with approved technical procedures and fully complied with nuclear safety standards and environmental protection requirements. The successful return of the unit confirms the importance of nuclear generation as a stable source of low-carbon electricity in Romania’s energy mix.
The restart of Cernavoda Unit 1 is expected to significantly improve the balance of Romania’s electricity system, especially during evening peak hours when solar generation decreases while electricity demand remains elevated. The additional 700 MW of available capacity should help reduce reliance on imports and provide greater stability during tighter market conditions.
Commissioned in 1996, Unit 1 has produced more than 149 million MWh of electricity throughout its operational lifetime. Nuclearelectrica estimates that the reactor’s generation has avoided approximately 145 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions, while maintaining a capacity factor above 90%, placing it among the highest-performing nuclear reactors globally.
Nuclearelectrica currently operates two 700 MW CANDU reactors at Cernavoda Nuclear Power Plant and also owns the Nuclear Fuel Factory in Pitesti, which manufactures fuel bundles for CANDU 6 reactors. The company’s nuclear assets remain a key pillar of Romania’s energy strategy, supporting security of supply, decarbonisation targets, and electricity-market stability across Southeast Europe.
