Romania’s Mintia gas-fired power project has moved into a further commissioning phase after its first turbine began operating on natural gas on October 8. The development is now entering a stage that includes gas turbine testing. Additional testing and synchronisation with the national transmission network are still required before deliveries can start.
Capacity targets and combined-cycle expansion
The plant is equipped with two gas turbines expected to deliver approximately 1.1 GW in its initial configuration. The project also includes a combined-cycle setup, which would raise total installed capacity to around 1.7 GW. Completion of the combined-cycle system is therefore tied to the later stages of commissioning beyond the initial turbine operation.
Project site, investment scale, and commissioning milestones
The Mintia project is being developed on the site of the former coal-fired Mintia station. It involves private investment of more than €1.2 billion. First firing marks an important construction milestone as equipment moves through commissioning steps. The next material change for the electricity market will occur when tested capacity is synchronised and available for sustained commercial dispatch.
Role in winter supply and peak demand coverage
Romanian authorities expect the plant to strengthen supply during winter and evening peaks, when demand is high and solar output is limited. The project is also expected to contribute alongside the Iernut gas-fired project. Together, Mintia and Iernut are expected to improve domestic supply security from 2027.
Market dependence on fuel, carbon costs, and power prices
Additional flexible generation from Mintia could reduce reliance on imports during tight periods. Its utilisation and commercial competitiveness will depend on gas prices, carbon costs and prevailing electricity prices. These factors will influence how often the plant can be dispatched once synchronised for sustained commercial operation.
