Romania could have up to 7 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2035

The scenarios outlined in the report chart two realistic paths for Romania to meet its future electricity needs. The first, a ‘Low growth’ scenario, assumes 3 GW of offshore wind power is installed to supply 16% of Romania’s electricity needs (by TWh) by the end of 2035. In this scenario, it is estimated supply chain activities would create €1.4Bn (US$1.5Bn] gross value added to the local economy in this period.

The ‘High growth’ scenario assumes 7 GW of offshore wind capacity is installed to supply 37% of Romania’s electricity needs by the end of 2035. In this scenario, it is estimated supply chain activities would create €5.3Bn (US$5.9Bn) gross value added to the local economy in this period, 3.7 times as much as in the low growth scenario.

To achieve these scenarios, the roadmap highlights priority themes and recommended actions for the government of Romania to consider. This includes further clarity on energy strategy with targets for offshore wind deployment up to 2035; the establishment of development zones in the most suitable locations; viable frameworks for licensing, leasing, permitting and offtake; significant upgrades of the transmission network; and support to key areas of Romania’s supply chain.

Romania Minister of Energy Sebastian-Ioan Burduja said, “The study conducted by the World Bank highlights the potential of offshore wind energy in the Black Sea and the opportunities for Romania’s economic and energy development.

“The roadmap can play a crucial role in strengthening Romania’s energy security and facilitating the transition to a green economy, in line with the objectives of the European Union.”

Mr Burduja said the recent adoption of Law 121/2024 on offshore wind energy, supported by the roadmap, “creates a solid legal foundation for the development of this sector, while taking utmost care for environmental protection measures in the production areas.”

The Minister noted that developing appropriate financing mechanisms will support the creation and expansion of offshore wind, as well as the necessary infrastructure. 

“The success of offshore wind projects depends on international co-operation and I am grateful for the close collaboration with the World Bank and European Union to help achieve our renewable energy goals,” the Minister said. “Collaboration with international stakeholders and other countries in the Black Sea region will enable technology transfer and the development of joint projects, supporting the integration of offshore wind into regional grids in the following years.”

European Union director for support to member state reforms, Nathalie Berger, said she is convinced the initiative “will provide certainty to investors and boost clean and affordable energy for citizens and companies throughout Romania. This initiative also contributes to Romania’s efforts in meeting the European Green Deal targets.”

World Bank offshore wind programme co-lead Sean Whittaker said the analysis in the roadmap “makes it clear the Black Sea is a promising new frontier in European offshore wind and presents significant untapped potential to meet Romania’s long-term renewable energy goals.”

Mr Whittaker said the relatively shallow coastal waters offshore Romania “make it technically and economically easier to install wind turbines.” He also noted that Romania’s position in Europe “allows access to large parts of the European energy market, helping integrate offshore wind into regional grids in the future.”

Riviera’s Offshore Wind Webinar Week will be held 4 November 2024. Click here to register for this free-to-attend event.