Energy & Natural Resources Law in Romania
Expert guidance on energy projects, resource management, and sustainability.
Introduction
Romania's energy sector is undergoing significant transformation. The National Energy Strategy 2025–2035 prioritizes energy security, diversification, and decarbonization. Renewables—wind, solar, and increasingly offshore wind and storage—are expanding. At the same time, regulatory frameworks are evolving rapidly. ANRE (the Romanian energy regulator), the Ministry of Energy, and EU legislation shape the rules for licensing, grid connection, support schemes, and market participation. Understanding these rules is essential for developers, investors, and operators active in the Romanian energy market.
Key Regulatory Updates (2025–2026)
The Romanian energy landscape is evolving rapidly. Several critical regulatory changes came into effect in 2025, significantly impacting project de-risking and financial planning:
- Grid Connection (Order No. 20/2025): Prioritization based on documentation completeness; mandatory guarantee (often 5% of the connection fee) within 2 months of receiving the grid study; automatic validity cessation for projects that fail to meet construction milestones.
- Electricity Licensing (Order No. 6/2025): Increased financial thresholds for supply and trading (e.g., up to €200,000); minimum three employees and at least two licensed electricians for generation/storage; dedicated framework for Black Sea offshore wind exploration and exploitation permits.
- Green Certificates & Storage (Order No. 27/2025): Obligation to purchase green certificates extended to energy storage operators for energy delivered to final consumers via direct lines; double-taxation relief aligned with OUG 134/2024 for stored energy re-injected to the grid.
Licensing and Authorization
Energy activities in Romania require specialized licenses or authorizations from ANRE. We guide clients through:
- Generation & Storage: Managing technical requirements, including the mandatory quota of licensed staff (2 electricians) as of March 2025.
- Supply & Trading: Ensuring compliance with the €200,000 financial threshold and the minimum 3-employee rule.
- Offshore Wind: Navigating the priority framework for concession contracts and exploration permits.
Note: We advise clients on license applications, ongoing compliance obligations, and proactive modifications when project parameters or shareholders change.
Grid Connection
Under Order No. 20/2025, securing grid capacity is more competitive than ever. Our office provides end-to-end support for:
- Documentation Management: Ensuring "completeness" to benefit from prioritization.
- Financial Strategy: Managing the 2-month window for financial guarantees to avoid application dismissal.
- Timeline Protection: Monitoring milestones to prevent the automatic cessation of your connection rights.
Renewables and Support Schemes
Romania supports renewable energy through green certificates, Contracts for Difference (CfD), and EU funding mechanisms. The green certificate system has been extended to storage. Offshore wind in the Black Sea is a strategic priority with dedicated support. Understanding eligibility, application procedures, and compliance obligations is essential for developers seeking support. We advise on regulatory design, contract structures, and ongoing compliance.
Natural Resources and Environmental Aspects
Energy projects often intersect with natural resources and environmental law. Extractive activities, water use, land access, and environmental permitting are regulated by separate frameworks. We assist clients in coordinating energy authorizations with environmental permits and other sector-specific approvals, ensuring that projects proceed in compliance with all applicable requirements.
Why Choose Cristina Gore for Energy Law
We bridge the gap between complex EU/National legislation and the practical needs of the energy market.
- Proven Compliance: We ensure your project meets the strict 2025 capital and staffing requirements.
- Sector Expertise: From traditional generation to the latest Offshore Wind and BESS (Battery Energy Storage Systems) regulations.
- Results-Oriented: We don't just explain the law; we help you secure the licenses and connection rights needed to reach Commercial Operation Date (COD).
Ensure your project is fully compliant with the new 2025–2026 regulatory framework.