Green Power Summit 2025 – A Transformative Shift to Renewables
GREEN POWER SUMMIT 2025, organized by Energy Industry Review in Bucharest on October 29, highlighted strategies, best practices and technologies to stimulate Romania’s transition to green energy. Inspiring discussions among leading energy experts effectively addressed challenges and delivered solutions for strengthening Romania’s renewable energy market.
Romania is accelerating its transition to clean energy, seeking to expand wind and solar power as key solutions for balancing its energy mix. Certain regulations have been introduced to incentivize private investment and streamline project approval, encouraging a more attractive environment for green energy development. Despite these achievements, the renewable energy sector in Romania continues to face significant challenges. The aging grid infrastructure struggles to accommodate the increasing amount of electricity generated from intermittent renewable sources such as wind and solar power.
CONTRIBUTING TO A CLEANER, COMPETITIVE AND RESILIENT ENERGY FUTURE IN ROMANIA – LARGE-SCALE RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECTS
Romania has several large-scale renewable energy projects, mainly focused on solar and wind power, with the goal of significantly increasing renewable energy production by 2030 and 2045. Its renewable energy sector offers promising opportunities for growth and investment, driven by supportive government policies. Recent government regulations represent a significant step in overcoming some of the challenges facing the sector, with others still to be addressed.
Miguel Antonio Jiménez – CEO, AJ BRAND, elaborated on large-scale renewable projects and infrastructure for a resilient Romanian market. He marked the most important aspects but also challenges of the transition to clean energy. With over 7,000 MW of projects delivered and another 1,500 MW under construction in Romania and Spain, the group is not only focusing on EPC but also plans to expand its activities to Trading & Market Optimization, PPAs, Asset Management, AI Centres and Green Fuel Generation. Miguel also addressed a hot topic for companies in the energy sector – storage. Energy storage solves the problem of intermittency in renewable energy, using technologies such as batteries, for example, and increases grid stability, enabling greater use of renewable energy. He outlined the opportunities and risks generated by the integration of storage into the grid for investors.
Key figures of one of the largest new solar and wind power portfolios in Romania were presented by Franck Neel – Member of the Executive Board Responsible for Gas & Power, OMV PETROM. The group’s strategy for renewables started in 2021 and today OMV Petrom focuses on key projects such as CE Oltenia – 450 MW PV, Teleorman – 710 MW PV, Renovatio – 950 MW wind, 180 MW PV Gabare (Bulgaria) – 400 MW solar, and Isalnita – 89 MW PV. He addressed the importance of change in legislation, acceleration of processes with EU funds, corporate PPA incentives for B2B (tax incentives) instead of CfD, interconnection of balancing with Picasso (Platform for the International Coordination of Automated Frequency Restoration and Stable System Operation). In his view, PPAs represent a strategic solution for decarbonization, and OMV Petrom acts as both a power producer and trader, managing the entire process—from generation to delivery.
A new area of development and a new perspective on integrating solutions into a single application was delivered by Kenderessy Robert – Country Manager for Balkans Area, SOLAX POWER. Present in Romania since 2022, the company has turned the country into a regional hub, coordinating operations across 12 Balkan states. Referring to BESS, SolaX Solutions for PV Parks and Utility Projects, Robert underlined that the company is already capable of covering all market needs. As differentiators, SolaX is based on AI-driven integration, independent PCS, Four-stage fuse protection. For instance, the system may use different fuse types, such as GG fuses for cable protection and GS fuses for AC short circuit and semiconductor protection. The company’s portfolio also includes commercial and industrial (C&I) products such as the ORI containerized batteries (up to 7.5 MWh), the TRENE energy storage systems (215 kWh), and the All-in-One AELIO solution, which integrates a 50/60 kW hybrid inverter and provides up to 200 kWh storage capacity per unit. Over the next five years, SolaX will install a total capacity of 30 GW, Robert noted.
LONGI SOLAR representative, Mirel Jarnea – Country Manager, emphasized the importance of ultimate photovoltaic technology. LONGi is a global solar technology company founded in 2000 that specializes in the manufacturing of high-efficiency mono-crystalline silicon wafers, cells, and modules. Ultimate PV technology drives faster return for investors through lower costs, higher efficiency, and innovative integration, making solar a competitive and attractive investment. Mirel cited the new solar park in Chisineu-Cris, Arad County, as an example. Developed for NEPI Rockcastle and engineered by EPC partner Enevo Group, this utility-scale project—the largest solar installation in Romania for retail infrastructure—will have a positive impact on the decarbonization process. LONGi Solar has deployed 54.1MW of Hi-MO 9 back contact (BC) modules for this solar park. Mirel also mentioned the Corbii Mari project, which is set to go into production in 2026, showcasing how BC technology delivers unparalleled bankability for developers.
Providing EPC or PV plants with ground mounted and floating structure, wind plants and HV substations, WALDEVAR ENERGY operates both domestically and across Europe. Among the numerous projects completed or underway in Romania or abroad, Cristian Dragomir – CEO, named a very important project for the company, the Nufarul Project – a pioneering initiative in the field of renewable energy, which will become the largest floating photovoltaic park ever installed on a hydroelectric dam in Europe. With an installed capacity of 10 MW and an estimated annual output of 13.4 GWh, the system will play a key role in increasing Romania’s renewable energy production. Besides that, the company is now certified for activities in the photovoltaic field and ready to start the first floating photovoltaic park in France, part of the WALDEVAR Floating PV portfolio.
Eurowind Energy’s vision for Romania 2030 was revealed by Adrian Dobre – Country Manager, who detailed the company’s plans for the future and projects in progress to be finalized by 2030. He also touched the main legislative challenges that company faces during the process. The Danish developer and operator of renewable energy projects sees Romania as one of its three core markets. EUROWIND ENERGY has projects under construction with a total capacity of approximately 460 MW and aims to achieve an operational renewable energy capacity of 1 GW in Romania by 2030. In 2026, the company plans to build a 260 MW PV park in Visina, three wind farms in Vector, Frumusita, and Pecineaga Nord-Est. In addition, a 120 MWh battery storage system will be built in Teius.
Analysing the energy transition in Europe, Ciprian Bodiu – Head of Sales, PARAPET notes a paradigm shift, with project authorization and implementation becoming faster. In his view, Romania currently has one of the most dynamic markets in Europe, but also one of the most challenging, as the pace of development often exceeds the system’s ability to adapt. This is where the role of EPC companies comes into play. Romania is currently the hot spot in Europe in terms of investments. But investment over the long term needs legislative predictability, stability and safety for the team. Ciprian opts for diversification and expansion of activity, digitization of processes, and integration of energy storage solutions into all processes. He believes that integrated projects and the energy of collaboration will define the coming period in the renewable energy sector.
UNLOCKING CAPITAL: THE BANKABILITY BLUEPRINT FOR ENERGY STORAGE IN ROMANIA
Energy shifting and flexibility services provided by energy storage are indispensable for system reliability and securing supply of energy to cope with periods of low renewable energy production and to maximize the use of renewable energy during periods of high production. Energy storage can provide the essential energy shifting service, which is one of the key solutions for minimizing the curtailment of renewable energy. But energy storage is also proving its value as a bankable investment. Unlocking value beyond storage, Ruben Valiente – Managing Director, MAXXEN ENERGY, showed in his presentation how to be competitive in the BESS industry, a promising route to clean energy transition. As Ruben concluded, good quality batteries are a financial asset and a fantastic investment opportunity.
TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES TO REINFORCE ROMANIA’S PATH TOWARDS DECARBONIZATION
Implementing the new storage capacities is also a challenge for AJ BRAND, said Daniel Miron – Chief Operating Officer. He spoke mainly about integrating technologies with green energy, the role of policies in the company’s activities, and how technology enables traceability. Daniel underlined the barriers and challenges standing in the way of developing a low-carbon energy infrastructure, such as the implementation of ESG policies, environmental policies, the rigidity of the energy system, and even human barriers. AJ Brand is committed to building for the future, delivering projects that promote decarbonization while strengthening energy security, and investing in people, he noted.
The role and dynamics of electricity grids in the energy transition context were the key points highlighted by Cristian Secosan – CEO, DELGAZ GRID, in his presentation. One of the company’s main concerns is adapting the grid to new energy realities. Thus, investments are needed in strengthening low-voltage grids to support prosumer connections. Delgaz Grid is transitioning from grid operation based on physical infrastructure to grid management based on data, automation, and intelligent real-time intervention. The company has aerial technologies for rapid intervention and consumer safety. Delgaz Grid recently completed a major network automation and digitization project—ADMS—which takes the management and operation of the electricity distribution infrastructure in Moldavia region to a new level, with benefits for all users. Cristian believes that in order to have lower energy prices, it is necessary to connect as many energy production capacities as possible to the grid.
Andrei Petrescu – Marketing Specialist, INCDT COMOTI, reviewed the main areas of activity of the institute, which has 35 years of excellence in turbomachinery engineering – Aerospace, Energy & Energy Saving, Environment and Defence. Regarding the chapter on sustainable solutions for the energy sector, the Romanian Research and Development Institute for Gas Turbines (INCDT) develops industrial gas turbines, high-efficiency power generation systems (CHP), compressors, and works on renewable energy technologies like biomass gasification for turbines, wind power and biofuels. The institute specializes in research, design, manufacturing and testing for various applications, including electrical power generation and the natural gas industry. Andrei also mentioned the CAES (Compressed-Air Energy Storage) solution. As advantages, CAES installations offer energy savings, good air quality, improved pressure stability, low maintenance costs and high reliability.
Daniel Apostol – Director General, FPE (Energy Employer’s Federation) detailed the role of the public policies in the implementation of energy projects with technologies designed to ensure Romania’s energy security. He stressed that Europe needs flexibility; instead, we are facing stiffness and blockage in defining the regulatory framework to guide the sector along the energy transition path. Thus, the transition risks becoming an unfair green transition. Daniel sounded the alarm about technological, fiscal, regulatory, and legislative barriers that are disproportionate and lead to inequalities and dysfunctions. He demanded a reasonable, stable, transparent, predictable framework, a just transition for Romania.
For a truly just transition, some experts say that nuclear energy should be included in support mechanisms, alongside investment in research and development for new nuclear technologies. Proponents argue that nuclear power is a clean, low-carbon energy source that can complement renewable energy and ensure grid stability. The same idea is supported by Dragos Roibu – CEO, NUCLEARELECTRICA SERV, who considers nuclear energy essential for a balanced and diversified energy mix, providing a stable, basic source. Nuclear energy is an important tool for decarbonization; it does not emit greenhouse gases during operation, contributing to reducing pollution and achieving climate goals.
The urgent need for energy sector leaders to address new EU cybersecurity regulations (NIS 2 Directive) by focusing on building cyber resilience and personal accountability for Directors and Officers (D&O) was explained by Alexandra Durbaca – CEO, LEADER TEAM. She introduced a new tool, the Ransomware Calculator, developed by CFC, a global leader in Cyber Insurance solutions. This innovative instrument allows companies to estimate potential financial losses in the event of a ransomware attack, based on real-world data collected by CFC from thousands of incidents managed globally over the past 20 years. Leader Team Broker services ensure comprehensive consultancy, cyber insurance, access to global expertise, management protection.
Romania is shifting to a new, auction-based methodology for capacity allocation starting January 1, 2026. Auctions will cover new generation facilities, additional power for existing sites, and expansions to existing consumption/generation sites, applying to both power plants and storage installations with installed power of 5 MW or more. Daniel Vlasceanu – Partner, VLASCEANU & PARTNERS, offered some details on capacity allocation scenario. This can be clarified through an auction mechanism, which involves a comprehensive study of solutions to define needs, a bidding procedure, the submission of applications with detailed proposals, contracting and payments based on a Statement of Work (SOW), and clear roles and responsibilities.
FUNDAMENTALS FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: PRACTICAL ISSUES & SOLUTIONS
Since its inception in 2014, GRANT MANAGEMENT EXPERTS, an engineering company initially focused on oil & gas and renewable energy projects, evolved into a versatile hub, adding specialized teams for green energy (solar, wind, substations and BESS) and infrastructure projects. Melania Amuza – Chief Operating Officer, made a case for investment decisions (FID) and partnerships for companies in Romania in 2025. This year, in Romania, the sector showed mixed signals. Although investment inflows declined in the first half of 2025, investor interest in expanding operations remains strong, driven by market access, supply chain efficiency, and technological opportunities. Melania referred to some important projects in which the company was involved – Tismana 1 and Tismana 2 solar PV parks in the pre-construction phase in Gorj County (part of a larger initiative by OMV Petrom and CE Oltenia to build four new solar parks), Ratesti solar PV park (the largest in southeastern Europe now operational), and several large-scale infrastructure projects in the Fagaras region.
We remind you that in July 2024, ANRE approved the Methodology for allocating grid capacity for connecting electricity generation sites, applicable from January 1, 2026, with the aim of making the renewable energy market more stable and predictable. Resuming the discussion about the new method for allocating power grid capacity, Cristina Gavrila – Partner, GLODEANU & PARTNERS, talked about the purpose of the procedure, the main steps of the process, scenarios, benefits and risks. This measure, intended to bring more transparency and predictability to renewable energy and storage projects, still leaves specific questions open regarding predictability and implementation, Cristina concluded.
An overview of Romania’s PV market – installed capacities, ongoing projects, targets, PPAs, state of grid connection and necessary skills for this sector was presented by Irene Mihai – Policy Officer, RPIA (Romanian Photovoltaic Industry Association). The total deployed solar capacity surpassed 6 GW, with growth continuing rapidly throughout the year. RPIA estimates that Romania’s total installed capacity could reach 11.2 GW by 2030, exceeding the government’s target of more than 8 GW. Storage capacity is projected to exceed 500 MWh by the end of 2025. RPIA also expects Romania’s PV market to reach an installed capacity of 10 GW by 2030 and to create approximately 100,000 jobs in this sector by then.
According to Marius Cara – Head of EIB GROUP Office in Romania, the current period is critical for investments, partnerships and public policies. Romania has potential in green energy, but its success in this area depends on the existing institutional capacity, sustainable financing and, of course, the skills needed for implementation. During the discussions, he presented the role of the EIB Group in supporting the green transition. The speaker underlined the importance of public-private partnerships and optimization in the context where grid stability, storage and interconnection are as important as access to finance itself.
Audience learned from Gašper Rugelj – Head of Ultra-Short Optimization and Algorithmic Trading, about GEN-I tools to accelerate clean energy transition. GEN-I is the first Slovenian supplier of exclusively carbon-free electricity and one of the fastest growing and most innovative companies on the wholesale European energy market. Gašper talked about the best techniques for battery energy storage systems to support intermittent renewable energy sources. The case for battery storage is built on the financial and grid-level benefits of value stacking – simultaneously providing energy arbitrage and ancillary services to lower costs and generate revenue. Speaking of BESS growth in Europe, he showed that proven profitability is a key driver for large-scale investment as it validates business models. As markets expand, efficient development and smart management become crucial to sustain that growth.
The 3rd edition of the GREEN POWER SUMMIT – a platform dedicated to shaping a clean, just, and competitive transition, brought together the strongest voices in the energy sector, experts and business leaders united by the same goal – building a brighter future for Romania.
In the end, the new mantra, agreed by everyone involved in the event, is Collaboration, Knowledge, and Shared Vision to drive innovation and success.
