Romania may restrict electricity exports amid risk of energy crisis

The Romanian government has approved a regulation allowing Transelectrica to take additional security measures in the event of a threat to the national power system.

According to Report, citing Agerpres, Transelectrica will be able to restrict electricity exports and gradually reduce power consumption if the situation deteriorates. The measures will apply only to large industrial consumers and will not affect households.

Transelectrica will determine the timing and extent of the restrictions, while energy companies must be notified at least 24 hours in advance. The regulation does not provide for automatic restrictions. They may only be introduced in the event of an energy market crisis or a threat to public safety, equipment, or the integrity of the national power system.

The regulation will remain in force until August 31, 2026. The authorities expect the heatwave to ease and water levels in the Danube to rise by then.

Earlier, on July 28, the first reactor at the Cernavodă Nuclear Power Plant was shut down due to a sharp decline in the Danube's water level. The plant's second reactor is also at risk of being shut down. The facility accounts for around 20% of Romania's electricity needs.

A complete shutdown of the nuclear power plant could put Romania at risk of an energy crisis.