Romania Stands by NuScale SMR Project Amid Growing Controversy

The Romanian government and state-owned nuclear operator Nuclearelectrica have been progressively advancing plans since 2021 to deploy small modular reactors (SMRs) developed by the U.S. company NuScale, with the site located at Doicesti. Following the failure of NuScale's first U.S. project and an increase in cost estimates for the Doicesti project, doubts have emerged over Romania's choice, which would involve six 77 MW SMRs.

Earlier this month, Romania's Ministry of Energy——the largest shareholder of Nuclearelectrica——reaffirmed its partnership with NuScale and rejected Nuclearelectrica's request to reassess the supplier selection. Nevertheless, the project still faces challenges. This week, the Prime Minister's Control Body (responsible for overseeing the activities of ministries and public services) recommended revisiting the fundamental basis of the Doicesti project.

The Ministry of Energy's decision has drawn attention because NuScale's first demonstration project in the United States has already been canceled, while costs for the Doicesti project continue to rise. Nuclearelectrica had hoped to reassess the supplier selection to ensure the project's economic viability and long-term sustainability.

The recommendation from the Prime Minister's Control Body has further added to the project's complexity. The body believes it is necessary to conduct a more in-depth review of the project's fundamental assumptions and risks to avoid future problems. This indicates that there are divergences within the Romanian government regarding the continued partnership with NuScale.

Despite the numerous challenges, Romania remains committed to its nuclear power development plans. The country hopes to enhance energy independence, reduce carbon emissions, and promote economic growth through the deployment of SMRs. However, the project's success depends on effectively addressing issues related to cost, schedule, and transparency.