Romania’s energy landscape is set to transform significantly with the recent approval of a $500 million structured funding package by Emirates Islamic for the Mintia gas-fired power plant, developed by Mass Group Holding. This financing marks one of the largest Islamic finance deals associated with European energy infrastructure, underscoring the growing importance of alternative funding sources in the sector.
The 1,700 MW Mintia plant, located in northwestern Romania, is projected to become Europe’s largest gas-fired power facility. The total estimated cost of the project is around €1.2 billion, highlighting its critical role in enhancing Romania’s energy security and bolstering regional electricity supply.
Electricity generation at the Mintia facility is slated to commence in Q1 2026, with full commercial operations anticipated by the end of that year. Local authorities in Hunedoara County have confirmed that testing for the first gas turbine will begin in January 2026, followed by subsequent testing for the second turbine in February and March. In terms of gas supply logistics, Transgaz has completed a pipeline capable of delivering up to 2.5 billion cubic meters per year, which will ensure sufficient fuel for the plant’s operations.
This new gas facility will replace the former coal-fired Mintia plant, which was decommissioned due to non-compliance with EU environmental standards. The site was acquired by Mass Global Energy Rom, a subsidiary of Mass Group Holding, for approximately €91 million in August 2022. The previous plant had entered insolvency in 2019 and was subsequently placed in conservation in 2021.
Upon reaching full operational capacity, the Mintia gas plant is expected to generate around 12,159 GWh annually and is projected to operate for an estimated lifespan of 30 years. This development will reinforce Romania’s position as a significant electricity producer within Southeastern Europe, contributing to both national and regional energy stability.
