ABB has been awarded a contract by engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractor Ansaldo Nucleare to modernize the control and safety systems at Unit 1 of the Cernavodă Nuclear Power Plant operated by Nuclearelectrica.

The project will support the extension of Unit 1’s operational life by an additional 30 years, helping ensure the continued delivery of reliable low-carbon baseload power to the grid. Cernavodă Nuclear Power Plant supplies around 18-20 percent of Romania’s total electricity generation. 

The modernization of the control and safety systems will provide a centralized and cyber-secure platform designed to improve operational reliability and support long-term plant performance. Cernavodă currently operates two CANDU-6 nuclear units, with Unit 1 in operation since 1996 and Unit 2 since 2007. ABB systems have been in operation at Cernavodă Unit 2 since 2007.

“This project represents an important step in ensuring the safety and performance of Unit 1, extending its operational life,” said Daniela Gentile, CEO of Ansaldo Nucleare. “Our knowledge of the plant, combined with our longstanding collaboration with ABB, its experience at the site, and its expertise in automation for nuclear power generation, will contribute to an efficient modernization of Unit 1 at Cernavodă.”

Against the backdrop of increasing demand for energy, the IEA says that variable renewables such as solar and wind alone cannot deliver power generation stability, affordability and security. In 2025, nuclear power remained the world’s second‑largest source of low‑emissions electricity after hydropower, providing dependable baseload power that complements renewables.

“To help meet energy demand, modernizing critical control and safety systems is essential to the long-term reliability and output of nuclear power plants,” said Per Erik Holsten, President of ABB’s Energy Industries division. “This project supports the continued delivery of reliable low-carbon power as part of a stable and resilient energy system in Romania. By combining advanced automation with integrated cyber security solutions, ABB is enabling the continued safe and efficient operation of this facility.”