Hidroelectrica, the leading electricity producer in Romania, has initiated a significant tender for the development of the Nehoiașu II hydropower plant and the upgrade of a 110 kV transformer station as part of the Surduc-Siriu scheme. This project is integral to the company’s strategy aimed at enhancing renewable generation and fortifying the national electricity infrastructure.
The estimated value of the contract is approximately 49.5 million euros, excluding VAT, and it will be executed on a turnkey basis. The scope encompasses comprehensive delivery aspects, including technical design, manufacturing, transportation, installation, testing, commissioning, and staff training. Implementation is projected to span 44 months, reflecting a commitment to timely project completion.
The construction activities will occur within the Surduc-Siriu hydropower development zone, which covers regions in Buzău, Vrancea, and Covasna counties. This initiative is anticipated to unlock further hydropower potential on the Buzău River while enhancing the overall performance and responsiveness of Romania’s electricity system.
This investment will feature the installation of a complete hydro unit, including a turbine, generator, and associated automation and protection systems alongside auxiliary hydromechanical equipment. The existing high-voltage substation will also be expanded as part of this project, integrating SCADA, communication, and security systems. Company representatives have highlighted that these developments are expected to bolster balancing capacity and improve system flexibility, aligning with Hidroelectrica’s ongoing efforts to modernize its generation portfolio.
The successful completion of HPP Nehoiașu II is deemed crucial for finalizing the larger Surduc-Nehoiașu hydropower cascade, which remains one of the key unfinished projects within Hidroelectrica’s investment pipeline.
The evaluation process for this tender will adopt a quality-to-price approach rather than focusing exclusively on cost. Factors such as technical performance, guaranteed operational parameters, and warranty conditions will play significant roles in determining the final selection.
As Romania’s largest producer of renewable electricity, Hidroelectrica operates a total of 188 hydropower plants with a combined installed capacity of 6.4 GW. Additionally, the company manages the Crucea wind farm, contributing another 108 MW to its renewable energy portfolio. Furthermore, Hidroelectrica maintains a dominant position in Romania’s retail electricity market based on its customer base.
