Romania’s transmission system operator Transelectrica has commissioned a new 400 kV transformer station in Reșița, alongside the modernization of an existing 220/110 kV substation. The works were carried out in Caraș-Severin County. The upgrade was completed as part of broader transmission grid expansion in western Romania.
The project is valued at €35.4 million (excluding VAT) and was financed from Transelectrica’s own resources. Construction was executed by a consortium led by Siemens Energy, together with Electrogrup and Retrasib. The scope included the creation of a new 400 kV facility and a complete upgrade of the transmission infrastructure at the site.
Role of the Reșița node in Banat transmission flows
The Reșița node supports power flows within western Romania’s electricity system. It forms part of the Banat high-voltage transmission corridor. The node is used to route electricity connecting Porțile de Fier, Reșița, Timișoara, and Arad.
Transelectrica said the corridor role of the Reșița node is linked to system stability and regional transmission needs. The operator is also pursuing related investments intended to complete a full 400 kV transmission corridor across the wider axis from Porțile de Fier to Arad via Reșița, Timișoara, and Săcălaz. These projects are described as aimed at strengthening grid resilience and increasing capacity in western Romania.
Western investment pipeline and funding levels
According to company management, more than €120 million in investments have already been implemented or are currently under way in western Romania. The stated objectives include improving network reliability, expanding capacity for new electricity producers, and enhancing connections for large industrial consumers.
Transelectrica also reported that it has secured shareholder approval for a 2026 investment budget of around €184 million. This represents a 30% year-on-year increase. The operator projected annual spending to reach approximately €262 million in the coming years.
Cross-border transmission with Serbia and new 400 kV corridors
The infrastructure expansion supports cross-border transmission capability with Serbia, where exchange capacity has reached up to 1,000 MW. Recent strategic projects cited by Transelectrica include the 400 kV Reșița–Pancevo interconnection. Another cited project is the Porțile de Fier–Anina–Reșița line.
In parallel, Transelectrica is developing a new 400 kV corridor from Reșița toward Timișoara and Săcălaz, extending to Arad. The project is described as part of Romania’s western high-voltage energy ring. It is supported through the Modernization Fund.
