Romania has opened public consultation on a Black Sea offshore wind plan that identifies six development zones with a combined estimated capacity of 11.5 GW. The mapped areas cover about 4,000 square kilometres of maritime territory and are split into three development stages. The plan’s first stage includes three fixed-bottom zones with total potential of 3.1 GW, aligned with Romania’s objective of installing around 3 GW by 2035.
First-stage fixed-bottom zones and resource estimates
Development Zone 1 covers 631 square kilometres and could accommodate 1.9 GW. Zones 2 and 3 cover 149 and 168 square kilometres, respectively, with an estimated 600 MW available in each. Water depths in the first-stage areas range from 55 to 75 metres.
The plan estimates average wind speeds of 7.7–7.9 metres per second at a height of 150 metres. Using indicative European offshore wind construction costs of approximately €3–4 million per MW, the initial 3.1 GW phase could require around €9–12 billion. This figure is stated as being before major onshore grid reinforcement and financing costs.
Final economics are described as dependent on turbine scale, foundation type, port infrastructure, local-content obligations and the support mechanism selected for concession auctions. The consultation material also notes that inclusion in the plan does not create a development right for any project.
Zoning constraints linked to defence areas and timing after 2035
Two additional zones offering a combined 2.4 GW have been deferred due to overlap with military areas and the safety perimeter of an active firing range. Development in those locations would require relocation or redesign of defence activities before concessions could proceed. The largest zone is scheduled for after 2035.
This later zone covers 2,195 square kilometres, reaches water depths of 135 metres, and has an estimated capacity of 6 GW. The plan indicates that the development could combine conventional fixed-bottom structures, deep-water foundations and floating wind technology.
Hydrocarbon block overlaps and environmental screening outcomes
The proposed offshore wind zones also overlap with the Istria, Midia, Luceafărul and Neptun hydrocarbon blocks. The consultation material identifies potential conflicts related to safety corridors, subsea infrastructure and marine logistics. Environmental screening flagged risks affecting migratory birds, marine mammals, fisheries, protected habitats, cultural heritage and navigation.
