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Heatwaves Threaten Nuclear Power Plants' Cooling Systems
Extreme heat and declining river levels are forcing nuclear plants across Europe to reduce output or shut down, raising concerns about their ability to adapt to a warming climate. Hungary temporarily closed units at its Paks nuclear plant due to unsafe cooling conditions caused by high temperatures. This issue is widespread, as most nuclear plants rely on rivers to dissipate waste heat. When water levels drop or rivers become too warm, operators face restrictions on discharging heated water, leading to reduced generation even during peak electricity demand. France has curtailed reactor output on the Rhône and Garonne rivers during hot summers to prevent river overheating, while Sweden and Finland have faced challenges with warm seawater. The World Nuclear Association highlights inland plants using direct river cooling as particularly vulnerable. A European Commission estimate suggests a 1°C rise in cooling-water temperature could reduce nuclear output by 0.2%. The IAEA warns that climate-related disruptions, though currently minor, will grow in importance without adaptation measures like larger cooling systems, alternative water sources, or improved forecasting. Eurelectric cautions that extreme heat could strain electricity systems by reducing thermal generation while increasing demand. Europe’s reactors remain critical for reliable low-carbon power but face growing risks as heatwaves intensify and water scarcity worsens.