Eastern Europe Prepares for Power Outages Due to Low Water Levels in the Danube

Consumers in Eastern Europe are facing potential electricity supply restrictions due to record low water levels in the Danube River. Abnormal heat has led to the drying up of water bodies, negatively impacting the operation of nuclear and hydroelectric power plants. Hungary is developing plans to reduce electricity consumption at large enterprises, as the Paks Nuclear Power Plant, which supplies over 40% of the country's needs, is forced to reduce its output. The operator of the plant has warned of a possible complete shutdown within 72 hours. In Romania, the interim Prime Minister has urged citizens to minimize the use of electrical appliances during peak hours, as one of the reactors at the Cernavodă Nuclear Power Plant has been shut down, forcing the country to purchase electricity from abroad. In Serbia, water supply restrictions are expected, and the largest hydroelectric power plant, Djerdap 1, is operating at only one-third of its capacity. Slovakia has recorded the lowest water level in the Danube in 125 years, complicating navigation. Five nuclear reactors in Slovakia are operating without restrictions thanks to autonomous cooling systems, but the hydropower sector has suffered losses. France has also reduced production at its nuclear power plants due to the threat to the ecosystem from the discharge of hot water.