Share of renewables in Romania’s electricity could reach 35% by 2030 - WindEurope

With a more flexible grid and inter-connectors to neighbouring countries, the share of wind and other renewables in Romania’s electricity could rise to 35% by 2030 from current 12.2%, the CEO of Brussels-based wind industry association WindEurope said on Wednesday.

This potential should be reflected in the draft National Energy and Climate Plan that Romania, like all EU countries, must submit to the European Commission by the end of 2018, Giles Dickson said, as quoted in a statement by the association.

According to the International Renewable Energy Agency, Southeast Europe has a potential to genefate 532 GW from wind power.

This potential is not being realised in Romania and in the wider region because regulatory uncertainty has pushed up the cost of capital, the WindEurope official said.

"With electricity demand predicted to rise in Romania, the country urgently needs to invest in new power capacity. Onshore wind is now the cheapest form of new power in Romania and many parts of Europe. And it’s reliable. And it’s getting easier and cheaper to integrate it in the energy system," Dickson said."Wind and other renewables could cover up to 35% of Romania’s electricity by 2030, provided there are more flexible grids and with the help of inter-connectors to Romania’s neighbours."

Dickson also urged governments in the region to give clarity on their renewables plans and legislation in their 2030 National Energy and Climate Plans.

WindEurope actively promotes wind power in Europe and worldwide and has over 450 members active in over 50 countries. In addition to wind turbine manufacturers, its membership encompasses component suppliers, research institutes, national wind and renewables associations, developers, contractors, electricity providers, finance and insurance companies, and consultants.

Choose your newsletter by Renewables Now. Join for free!