On October 16, the European Commission published the final version of Romania’s National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP), which aims for 38% of energy consumption to come from renewable energy sources (RES), with wind and photovoltaic solar power as the main drivers.
To meet these goals, Romania will need to achieve significant growth in both wind and solar energy, with the association stating that 450 MW of wind and 560 MW of photovoltaic solar power must be installed each year, according to the data provided by the Asociatia Pentru Energie Regenerabila Sustenabila.
«Meeting these goals depends on sustained investments, regulatory stability, and technological advancements. While there are positive indicators, such as increased investments in the sector, challenges like bureaucratic hurdles and inconsistent policy frameworks could hinder progress,» APERS noted in discussions with Energía Estratégica España.
They also pointed out that the increase in renewable capacity will require investments of around €10 billion by 2030. «This includes financing for new wind and solar projects, grid improvements, and energy storage solutions,» they detailed.
The Romanian association highlights that the regulatory framework for the renewable market is evolving, with the government introducing incentives to promote investments However, they express that market volatility and fluctuating energy prices may create uncertainties for investors.
«The growing demand for green energy, driven by both domestic consumption and EU directives, suggests increasing market potential. However, competition from other EU countries and the need for modernized infrastructure remain urgent concerns,» they indicate.
Sector Challenges
While the Romanian market has growth expectations for renewable energy, APERS points out several challenges and barriers that need to be addressed, primarily in the regulatory framework.
«To overcome barriers and stimulate growth in renewable technologies, the permitting approval process should be expedited, and clear long-term policies should be established to provide greater certainty for investors. Inconsistencies in regulations and lengthy approval processes can delay project implementation,» they stated.
Another point they raise is the technical limitations of the electricity grids.
«Outdated infrastructure and the need for grid modernization present challenges for effectively integrating renewables. Updating the electrical grid is critical to accommodate a larger share of renewables and ensure reliability,» they add.
They also highlight that economic constraints can hinder the development of new renewable projects, as high initial investment costs and fluctuating market prices may deter potential investors.
Additionally, public acceptance and concerns about environmental impacts or land-use changes generate resistance to new projects.
In this context, the renewable association emphasizes the need to promote financial incentives, provide subsidies and grants to alleviate the financial burden on new projects, and foster collaboration between the government and private investors to facilitate financing and knowledge sharing.
Government Measures and Incentives
Romania has implemented various government incentives in the energy market to promote investment and support the transition to renewable energy sources, according to APERS.
The main scheme supports renewable energy through Green Certificates. For every MWh of electricity produced from renewable sources, producers receive a certain number of Green Certificates.
The number depends on the type of renewable energy; for wind energy, 1.5 certificates are awarded per MWh, and for solar energy, 6 certificates per MWh.
These certificates are traded on a market. The price of Green Certificates fluctuates, but historically it has ranged between €20 and €60 per certificate, the Romanian association reports.
Additionally, the government promotes grant programs for renewable projects through European Funds, with incentives such as tax exemptions and accelerated depreciation of assets.