Investing in Tomorrow: Nuclearelectrica's Vision for Romania

Nuclearelectrica, Romania's sole nuclear energy producer, 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 role as a regional hub for nuclear expertise and production.

A key project is the refurbishment of Unit 1 at Cernavodă, 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 CO2 emissions annually.

A cornerstone of Nuclearelectrica's investment portfolio is the development of Units 3 and 4 at the Cernavodă Nuclear Power Plant. These units will add approximately 1,448 MWe to the national grid by the end of the decade, generating over 10 million MWh of clean energy annually and preventing 10 million tons of CO2 emissions each year.

Nuclearelectrica is also leading the deployment of SMRs in Romania, thus in Europe. These reactors offer a scalable option for nuclear energy production. The SMR project at Doicești, with a total capacity of 462 MWe, will replace a former thermal power plant. The project will create over 200 permanent jobs, 1500 jobs during construction and avoid 4 million emission tons of CO2 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 Cernavodă. This facility, the first of its kind in Europe, will enhance environmental protection by safely managing and reducing tritium from the plant’s heavy water. Additionally, the company is exploring the production of medical isotopes, critical for medical imaging and cancer treatment. These initiatives contribute both to the clean energy mission and to global health and safety through innovative nuclear applications.
Cosmin Ghiță, 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.”

The company aims to achieve carbon neutrality, expand clean energy production, lead in innovation and technological advancement, manage resources sustainably, and develop the community and workforce. To achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, the company continues investing in clean energy projects, particularly nuclear, implement energy efficiency measures, and invest in carbon offset projects where necessary, while applying strategies and measures to reduce its own carbon footprint and act in accordance with both SDGs and European Sustainability Directive.

Expanding clean energy production is crucial. This can be achieved by completing the development of CANDU Units 3 and 4 and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), and by exploring additional renewable energy projects. Such efforts will diversify energy sources and enhance overall clean energy output.