Romanian energy minister talks PNRR amendments and slower decarbonisation in Brussels
<p>Romania's minister of energy, <strong>Sebastian Burduja</strong>, is paying a visit to Brussels accompanied by the head of energy group CE Oltenia (CEO) to discuss amendments to the national implementation of the Resilience Facility (PNRR) and a prolonged phasing-off calendar for the coal-fired power plant operated by CEO.</p>

<p>"Coal was the resource that saved us in the difficult episodes during recent years and remains a reliable resource. We must have the necessary time to ensure a balanced transition without economic and social shocks. The country's energy security and jobs are at stake," the minister of energy argued, as reported by <a href="https://economedia.ro/burduja-vizita-la-bruxelles-pentru-a-discuta-despre-renegocierea-pnrr-si-prelungirea-perioadei-de-tranzitie-pentru-termocentralele-pe-carbune.html?mc_cid=f31537e778&amp;mc_eid=cd1f92f96c" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Economedia.ro</a>.</p>

<p>Based on the commitments currently in force, Romania should close lignite-fired energy production capacities by the end of 2026 with a cumulative installed capacity of 2,085 MW.</p>

<p>CEO's investments in new production units, representing 2 natural gas power plants of 1,325 MW in total and 8 photovoltaic parks totaling 690 MW, to which is added the refurbishment of a 10 MW hydroelectric power plant, are behind schedule.</p>

<p>However, the CEO's latest estimates show that gas-fired power plants could only be put into operation in March and July 2028, and photovoltaic parks - in June and November 2026.</p>

<p><em>iulian@romania-insider.com</em></p>

<p><em>(Photo source: Inquam Photos/George Calin)</em></p>