On 3 September 2025, SN Nuclearelectrica officially kicked off the civil infrastructure works for the refurbishment of Cernavoda Nuclear Power Plant Unit 1, marking the project's transition into its critical phase. The launch ceremony was held in the presence of President Nicușor Dan, Romanian ministers responsible for Energy, Environment, and Foreign Affairs, the head of nuclear regulator CNCAN, as well as ambassadors from Canada, South Korea, and Italy and representatives of the international consortium—underlining both its strategic importance and scope of international collaboration.

The EPC contract, signed in December 2024, is valued at approximately €1.9 billion (USD 1.97 billion), and was awarded to a consortium led by Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP), Candu Energy of AtkinsRealis, Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC), and Ansaldo Nucleare.

(Image: KHNP)

A Strategic Life-Extension Project

CANDU reactors like Cernavoda Unit 1 have a design life of 30 years. The refurbishment will extend operational life by an additional 30 years through the replacement of major components—steam generators, pressure tubes, calandria tubes, feeder tubes, and fuel channels—and inspection of thousands of parts. AtkinsRealis's scope is valued at around USD 937 million, with initial staffing reaching 250 experts and expected to grow to 340 by mid-2025, leading to project completion by 2030.

Waste Management Infrastructure in Place

Simultaneously, the project includes the construction of an Intermediate Radioactive Waste Repository (DIDR-U5), approved by CNCAN, to handle low- and intermediate-level waste generated by Unit 1’s refurbishment and long-term operation of Units 1 and 2. Located within the Unit 5 reactor building, it will house reception, processing, interim storage, and equipment decontamination facilities.

Aligning with Romania’s Energy & Environmental Strategy

Since entering service in 1996, Unit 1 has delivered over 145 million MWh of electricity, avoiding approximately 140 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions, while maintaining capacity factors above 90%. Together with Unit 2, they average over 92%, setting a global benchmark. This refurbishment will ensure continued clean, stable, and cost-effective energy generation, further bolstering Romania’s energy security and decarbonization agenda.

Looking Ahead: Units 3 & 4 on the Horizon

President Dan emphasized that Unit 1 refurbishment is merely the first step. Plans are firmly underway for the construction of Units 3 and 4, which will further expand nuclear energy’s role in Romania’s power mix, delivering energy security, autonomy, and affordability for citizens and the economy

From technological, environmental, and strategic perspectives, the refurbishment of Cernavoda Unit 1 is not only a measure to enhance Romania’s existing nuclear capacity but also a pivotal step in advancing the country’s long-term energy independence and clean development. The project stands as a model of international cooperation and lays a solid foundation for the future construction of Units 3 and 4. Its success is expected to inject new confidence and momentum into the nuclear sector in Southeast Europe and worldwide.