In 2025, Romania’s onshore wind sector is projected to expand by approximately 330 MW, signaling a significant recovery after a prolonged period of stagnation. This growth comes amidst ongoing challenges, including administrative bottlenecks and network access issues, which continue to hinder the pace of new installations.
Industry experts have identified inconsistencies in permitting processes as a critical barrier, while the connection to the electricity grid remains a substantial hurdle. Stakeholders emphasize that fragmented communication between the transmission system operator Transelectrica and regional distribution companies complicates efforts to achieve effective network integration. Developers often find themselves engaging with multiple institutions before essential technical parameters are established.
Despite these obstacles, there is a renewed sense of optimism within the sector. Access to European recovery funds through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), along with enhanced policy support and the pressing need for an energy transition, has rekindled investor interest. Romania is on track to exceed 3 GW of installed wind capacity, with ambitions to reach between 5–6 GW by 2030, as projects initiated in 2023 and 2024 progress into the construction phase.
The majority of new developments are concentrated in the Dobrogea and Moldova regions, although western areas are also beginning to attract investment. Many projects funded by the PNRR face stringent completion deadlines, with numerous network connections planned for 2025 and 2026.
A notable trend is the modernization of existing wind farms through a process known as repowering. This involves replacing outdated turbines with more efficient models that offer higher capacity, enabling operators to boost output without requiring additional land. Recent legislative changes have streamlined some permitting processes and created opportunities for developments on non-agricultural or less productive farmland.
However, substantial investment in network infrastructure remains crucial. Both Transelectrica and local distribution operators must undertake upgrades to accommodate the increasing volume of renewable energy capacity. Additionally, supply chain pressures across Europe, particularly concerning high demand for turbines, pose risks of delays in equipment deliveries.
