Europe’s Drought Shuts Down Nuclear Reactors
Europe’s drought has become an energy problem. Romania is disconnecting its only working reactor, and France has lost three to jellyfish. One Dutch bank estimates the cost of this summer at the whole of the EU’s expected growth.
The Impact Across Europe
- Romania: On Thursday, Nuclearelectrica began disconnecting Romania’s sole operating reactor, Cernavoda, due to low water levels in the Danube. They had already attempted various measures to prevent this, including dredging and a controlled explosion.
- France: Three reactors were shut down entirely at Gravelines due to a “massive influx of jellyfish”. This is the second year running that jellyfish have caused closures at this plant.
- Hungary: The Danube’s water levels rose enough to restart a turbine at Paks, supplying nearly half the country’s electricity.
The Common Theme: Water Constraints
Nuclear reactors require water for cooling. They are typically located near rivers or coastlines for this reason. When water levels drop or temperatures rise, reactors must power down. This is what is happening across Europe, with varying causes but a consistent outcome.
Response and Future Considerations
- UK: Prime Minister Andy Burnham convened Cobra over heatwaves, wildfires, and drought.
- Cooling Systems and Maintenance: Governments are exploring upgraded cooling systems and scheduling maintenance during the hottest weeks, though these measures do not alter the fact that water is the primary constraint.
- Romanian Measures: The steps taken by Romania, including dredging, sunken barges, and a controlled detonation, show the limits of short-term solutions. These methods must be repeated if river levels drop again.
Economic Impact
Dutch bank Triodos estimates the economic cost of this summer’s heat at €180bn, approximately 1% of the EU’s expected growth.