Romania is on the verge of a significant advancement in its energy landscape as the Mintia gas-fired power plant prepares for its initial connection to the national grid. The transmission system operator, Transelectrica, has indicated that the project is ahead of schedule, with mid-May set as the new target date for energizing the first gas turbine.
The immediate objective is to bring the first turbine unit online, which is expected to deliver over 575 MW of installed capacity. Prior to synchronization with the national grid, essential technical tasks must be completed, including final installations at the site, comprehensive system testing, training for personnel, and integration into the national SCADA control system. Following its energization, the turbine will undergo a testing phase projected to last at least one month.
The overall plan for the facility includes a combined-cycle gas power plant with a maximum capacity of 1,700 MW, positioning it among Europe’s largest plants once operational. With an anticipated annual generation exceeding 12,000 GWh and an operational lifespan of approximately 30 years, this plant is poised to play a crucial role in enhancing both Romanian and regional energy security.
Financial backing for the Mintia project includes a substantial loan of around $500 million secured by Mass Group Holding earlier this year. This funding supports a total investment estimated between €1.2 billion and €1.4 billion. Additionally, new gas infrastructure is being developed, with Transgaz completing a pipeline system capable of delivering up to 2.5 billion cubic meters of gas annually.
This facility is being constructed on the site of a former coal-fired power plant that was decommissioned due to non-compliance with EU environmental regulations. Acquired in 2022 by Mass Global Energy Rom, the site is being repurposed into a vital asset in Romania’s transition toward lower-emission energy generation while ensuring grid stability during this transformation.
