CNCAN is monitoring the situation at Cernavodă NPP in the context of the hydrological conditions on the Danube
The National Commission for Nuclear Activities Control (CNCAN) continues its permanent oversight of the situation at the Cernavodă Nuclear Power Plant (NPP), in the context of the exceptional hydrological conditions caused by the low level of the Danube.
Against the background of prolonged drought and high temperatures, the flow rate and level of the river have fallen significantly. In accordance with the technical assessments and the operating procedures, Unit 1 was shut down in a controlled manner on 28 July 2026, and Unit 2 on 13 August 2026. The shutdown of both units is a preventive measure provided for in the nuclear safety procedures, carried out in complete safety and without any radiological consequences for the population or the environment.
Cernavodă NPP carries out its activity in accordance with the nuclear safety licences issued by CNCAN and with the applicable regulations. Depending on how the hydrological conditions evolve, the preventive measures provided for in the plant procedures are implemented on site in order to maintain the safety margins.
The current level in the intake basin allows the cooling systems of the shut-down reactors to operate within normal parameters. The plant is prepared to apply all the administrative and technical measures provided for in the procedures to maintain the safe state, irrespective of the river levels.
At the same time, the implementation of the measures established by the National Committee for Emergency Situations (CNSU) regarding works on the course of the Danube remains essential in order to guarantee, in the long term, the optimum water level required both for cooling the reactors in the shutdown state and for resuming operation of the plant at rated power.
CNCAN's specialist staff continuously oversee compliance with the nuclear safety norms and the conduct of activities on site.
CNCAN will inform the public of any relevant development from a nuclear safety perspective.