Massive EU-Funded Scheme for Public Infrastructure

Romania is set to launch a substantial €650 million funding scheme dedicated to public-sector solar and battery energy storage (BESS) projects. Financed through the EU Modernisation Fund, the initiative aims to significantly boost local renewable generation and grid flexibility. Applications will be accepted by the Agency for Financing Rural Investments (AFIR) from 28 September to 20 November 2026, providing a clear window for public institutions to secure vital financial support.

The scheme is structured into two distinct programmes. The primary €500 million programme focuses on new solar installations combined with battery storage for self-consumption. It offers support of up to €900,000 per MW, or €1.1 million per MW when combined with storage. This financial incentive is designed to accelerate the deployment of distributed generation and storage across public facilities, reducing reliance on the central grid and lowering energy costs for public institutions.

Corporate BESS Developments

Alongside public sector initiatives, corporate investments in Romanian storage are also gaining momentum. OMV Petrom has signed an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract with Simtel Team to build a 20 MW/40 MWh battery energy storage system at the Ișalnița solar farm in Dolj County. Construction is expected to be completed within seven months. The associated Ișalnița solar farm boasts an installed capacity of 89 MWp and is projected to generate 130 GWh annually, creating a robust hybrid asset.

Romania's €650 million public funding scheme, backed by the EU Modernisation Fund, will catalyze a new wave of solar-plus-storage deployments across the country's public sector.

These developments underscore Romania's commitment to leveraging European funds and private capital to modernize its energy infrastructure, enhance energy security, and meet its ambitious climate targets while providing reliable, clean power to its citizens.

Source: Business Review, Solar Quarter

This article was assisted by AI analysis. Please refer to the original source for official information.