Romania's Energy Crisis: Brazi Power Plant Resumes Amid Water Supply Issues

Romania's Brazi power plant, pivotal for electricity supply, resumed operations after shutting down due to water restrictions at the Paltinu dam. As plant capacity gradually restores, the water supply crisis affects around 100,000 people and sparks tensions within the coalition government.

Romanian energy group OMV Petrom confirmed the resumption of operations at its Brazi power plant after water restrictions at the Paltinu dam caused a shutdown. The plant, which contributes around 10% of Romania's electricity, restarted with 300 MW back on the national grid, the remainder to follow.

Since late November, the facility operated at diminished capacity, ultimately ceasing operations and leading the energy ministry to source alternative electricity from hydro and lignite plants. Interestingly, on Friday, Romania managed to become a net exporter of power aided by enhanced hydro and wind energy production.

In a parallel crisis, about 100,000 residents across two counties faced nondrinkable tap water as quality issues prompted state agencies to halt dam operations. Authorities anticipate resolving the dam problems next week while current water supplies are rationed, with the situation reigniting tensions within the ruling coalition.

(With inputs from agencies.)