Vidraru Reservoir Refill Scheduled for End-March, Hydropower Operations Expected in October
The refill of the Vidraru dam reservoir is set to begin at the end of March, with estimates indicating that the water level could reach the minimum technical threshold needed to restart hydropower operations by October. This project, led by Hidroelectrica, represents an investment of over 200 million euros and involves extensive refurbishment works.
The controlled emptying of the reservoir commenced on August 1, 2025, marking the first complete emptying since 1974. Currently, over 20 construction sites are active, focusing on hydromechanical equipment for the bottom spillways and energy intake, with expected completion by March 31.
The refurbishment contract is valued at 188.382 million euros. The Vidraru Hydropower Plant, operational since December 9, 1966, utilizes the Arges River and has a total reservoir volume of 465 million cubic meters.
