The significant drop in the Danube River’s water levels is affecting the operation of several power plants in the region, including Romania’s Cernavodă Nuclear Power Plant, potentially leading to higher electricity prices on regional markets. However, Moldova’s Ministry of Energy says electricity supplies to consumers remain normal, with no restrictions or interruptions reported.
According to the ministry, the controlled shutdown of Units 1 and 2 at the Cernavodă Nuclear Power Plant has removed around 1,400 MW from Romania’s energy system, equivalent to nearly 20% of Romania’s peak electricity consumption. Under these conditions, Romania may need additional electricity imports, while prices on the day-ahead market could increase.
The Ministry of Energy notes that Moldova purchases approximately 10–15% of its electricity from the OPCOM market, depending on consumption needs and commercial conditions. Therefore, the direct impact on the average electricity purchase cost is expected to be limited, but it will depend on how long regional capacities remain unavailable, domestic consumption levels, and market price developments.
Authorities warn that the upcoming heatwave, with temperatures expected to reach 35–38°C, could increase domestic electricity consumption by 15–20%, mainly due to intensive use of air conditioning systems.
Weather conditions may also affect renewable energy production. Weak winds can reduce electricity generation from wind farms, while extremely high temperatures lower the efficiency of photovoltaic panels, even if solar radiation levels remain high.
The Ministry of Energy recommends that consumers use electricity rationally between 6:00 PM and 11:00 PM, when demand reaches its highest levels.