Romania to Become a Regional Leader in Clean Energy Production in the Black Sea
The Romanian Ministry of Energy has launched a public call for expressions of interest for the study on the identification and delimitation of Black Sea blocks that can be concessioned for the development of offshore wind farms. This milestone marks the beginning of a new phase in the implementation of Law no. 121/2024 on offshore wind energy – a framework law that gives Romania the chance to capitalize on an exceptional energy potential and become a regional leader in clean energy production in the Black Sea.
The study will analyse the wind potential in the Black Sea, the geotechnical characteristics of the marine environment, the environmental impact and biodiversity, the possibilities for connection to the National Energy System, as well as compatibility with other uses of maritime space, such as navigation, fishing, extraction or military zones. In addition, logistical, security, and transport aspects will be assessed in order to propose a coherent prioritization of blocks that can support the development of strategic projects.
In this endeavour, the Ministry of Energy is supported by renowned international partners such as the World Bank and the European Commission through the TSI provided by the REFORM General Secretariat.
“The Black Sea is a strategic energy resource for our country, which we have so far capitalized too little, but which can become an essential pillar of national and regional energy security. During my term in office, I have prioritized investments in the Black Sea with the aim of diversifying and strengthening the energy mix so that Romania can become the energy leader that our region needs. Through gas production in the Neptun Deep block and electricity production from offshore wind blocks, with a total theoretical potential of 76GW according to a World Bank study, the Romanian energy system is becoming more secure and contributing to the competitiveness and resilience of the national economy. This call launched by the Ministry of Energy is part of the construction of a new energy architecture for our country. The study we are preparing will form the basis for strategic decisions on the concession of offshore blocks and will provide investors with a clear vision, scientifically sound and in line with international best practices. I invite all relevant stakeholders – companies, consortia, research institutes – to actively participate in this process. Together we will turn the potential of the Black Sea into a real driver of Romania’s energy transition,” Energy Minister Sebastian Burduja said.
The final objective of the study is to support the development of an installed offshore wind energy capacity of at least 3 GW by 2035, in line with Romania’s European targets.
Thus, the Ministry of Energy reaffirms its commitment to a sustainable, secure and competitive energy transition, and encourages the involvement of all stakeholders interested in the future of clean energy in Romania.
In May 2024, Romania adopted its first offshore wind energy law. The law creates the legislative framework to develop offshore wind projects in the Romanian Black Sea.
Romania aims to develop its first offshore wind farm by 2032.
