Nuclearelectrica, Romania’s sole producer of nuclear energy, is setting the stage for a transformative era in clean energy with ambitious investment projects.
This strategic expansion highlights Romania’s commitment to sustainable energy and its role as a regional hub for nuclear expertise and production.
A key project is the refurbishment of Unit 1 at the Cernavoda Nuclear Power Plant, which will extend its operational life by 30 years beyond 2029. It will support Romania’s decarbonization goals by avoiding an additional 5 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually.
A cornerstone of Nuclearelectrica’s investment portfolio is the development of Units 3 and 4 at Cernavoda. These units will add approximately 1,448 megawatts electric to the national grid by the end of the decade, generating over 10 million megawatt-hours of clean energy annually and preventing 10 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year.
Nuclearelectrica is also leading the deployment of small modular reactors in Romania, thus in Europe. These reactors offer a scalable option for energy production. The SMR project at Doicesti, for example, with a capacity of 462 MWe, will replace a former thermal power plant. The project will create over 1,500 jobs during construction and 200 permanent jobs, while avoiding 4 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually.
This entire expansion brings Romania’s installed nuclear capacity to 3,262 MW, marking a significant milestone in the country’s energy landscape.
Nuclearelectrica is also advancing Romania’s capabilities in nuclear technology through the development of the Tritium Removal Facility at Cernavoda. This facility, the first of its kind in Europe, will enhance environmental protection by safely managing and reducing the amount of this byproduct in the plant’s heavy water.
Additionally, the company is exploring the production of medical isotopes, which are critical for medical imaging and cancer treatment. These initiatives contribute to both the clean energy mission and to global health and safety through innovative nuclear applications.
Nuclearelectrica’s President of the Board Teodor Chirica emphasized the importance of a sustainable local supply chain in achieving these ambitious goals.
“Building a sustainable local supply chain is not just about meeting our current project needs, it’s about creating a robust ecosystem that can support the long-term development of the nuclear industry in Romania and the region. This approach ensures that the benefits of these projects extend beyond energy production to include economic and social advancements. All of this can be done only with a strong regulatory framework and Romania has that.”
Building a sustainable local supply chain is not just about meeting our current project needs, it’s about creating a robust ecosystem that can support the long-term development of the nuclear industry in Romania and the region.
Teodor Chirica, President of the Board of Nuclearelectrica
Cosmin Ghita, CEO of Nuclearelectrica, underlines the significance of nuclear energy in achieving clean energy goals.
“Nuclear energy is a critical component of Romania’s energy strategy, offering a reliable, low-carbon source of power that complements our renewable energy initiatives. With our experience and expertise, Romania is well-positioned to become a regional hub for nuclear energy production and know-how, contributing to the global push for decarbonization.”
By securing Romania’s energy needs while setting a benchmark for clean, sustainable energy in Europe, Nuclearelectrica’s projects are investments in the future. Nuclearelectrica’s efforts in nuclear energy position Romania as a leader in the global transition to a low-carbon economy.
