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Romania publishes draft framework for offshore wind, plans 3 GW by 2035
*The Ministry of Energy in Romania has published draft legislation regarding the development of offshore windfarms in its waters and wants to build 3 GW of capacity by 2035, https://www.rivieramm.com/ informs.
Publication of the draft legislation marks the beginning of a 30-day public consultation period. The aim of the legislation is to develop a legal framework for the development of offshore windfarms in the Romanian sector of the Black Sea.
“Establishing an appropriate legislative and fiscal framework is essential in the development of offshore wind,” the ministry said. “Romania aims to fulfil the main objectives of the climate policy of the European Union… and fairly manage the transition of the Romanian energy sector towards the production of clean energy.”
The Ministry also noted that use of energy from renewable sources is “vital for combating climate change, protecting the environment, reducing energy dependency and ensuring energy security in the current geopolitical context.”
Romania Minister of Energy Sebastian Burduja said, “The offshore wind potential in the Black Sea is huge… We are talking about a technical potential of more than 75 GW according to the estimates from the World Bank. Offshore wind is a major tool for Europe’s goal of reducing dependence on fossil fuel imports and decarbonisation. I have said since taking office that, in addition to safe and cheap energy, I also want green energy.”
The draft legislation establishes a general framework for the implementation of offshore wind projects and proposes that projects are supported by a contracts for difference (CfD) of the type pioneered in the UK and now used widely elsewhere.
The competent authority that will authorise construction of offshore windfarms in Romanian waters will be the ‘Competent Authority for the Regulation of Offshore Petroleum Operations in the Black Sea (ACROPO).’ The Ministry of Energy will delineate areas in which offshore windfarms can be developed.
With the support of a specialist consultant, the Ministry of Energy is also planning to carry out a study on the basis of which offshore wind zones can be identified and auctions for the construction and operation of capacity can be held.