In a significant move to enhance its energy infrastructure, Romanian hydropower producer Hidroelectrica has entered into a refurbishment agreement valued at €188.5 million for the Raul Mare Retezat hydropower plant. This initiative marks the beginning of an extensive modernization project aimed at restoring lost generation capacity and improving operational efficiency at this critical energy facility.
The contract has been awarded to a consortium led by COBRA Instalaciones y Servicios, in collaboration with Andritz Hydro, alongside several Romanian subcontractors who will contribute to the project’s execution. This partnership underscores the importance of local involvement in major energy projects, which can bolster regional economic activity and expertise.
The procurement process for this project commenced in September 2025, utilizing Romania’s public procurement framework, with bids being submitted by December 2025. Initially estimated at €193.3 million, the final contract reflects adjustments made during the evaluation phase, highlighting the dynamic nature of large-scale energy projects.
Originally designed with an installed capacity of 335 MW, the Raul Mare Retezat plant has faced technical challenges that have limited its effective output to approximately 200 MW over recent years. The refurbishment program is expected to recover around 135 MW of additional usable capacity, thereby significantly enhancing the plant’s contribution to Romania’s electricity supply and overall energy landscape.
Hidroelectrica has emphasized that this refurbishment is not solely focused on increasing electricity generation but also aims to improve ancillary services provided to the national grid. This enhancement is crucial for bolstering Romania’s energy security, particularly as the country navigates an evolving energy market characterized by growing demand and sustainability considerations.
The scope of the refurbishment includes replacing and modernizing essential equipment to boost efficiency, reliability, and operational flexibility. Furthermore, these upgrades are anticipated to lead to reduced long-term maintenance and operating costs. As Hidroelectrica implements these improvements, the plant will align more closely with contemporary technological standards and be better positioned to adapt to changing market conditions in the electricity sector.
