Romania has officially opened the path toward the development of offshore wind energy in the Black Sea. Minister of Energy Sebastian Burduja announced today the launch of a public call for expressions of interest aimed at conducting a study to identify and delineate maritime zones that can be leased for offshore wind farm development. 2v5q49

This initiative marks the beginning of the implementation of Law No. 121/2024 on Offshore Wind Energy, a landmark framework that positions Romania as a potential regional leader in clean energy production from the Black Sea.

The study will assess the wind potential of the area, the geotechnical characteristics of the marine environment, environmental and biodiversity impacts, and the compatibility with other maritime activities such as navigation, fishing, military zones, or resource extraction. It will also analyze the feasibility of connecting to the National Energy System, as well as logistics, security, and transport factors — all essential for defining strategic development priorities. 

“The Black Sea is a strategic energy resource for our country, which we have not sufficiently capitalized on until now. In my mandate, I have prioritized investments in this region to diversify and strengthen Romania’s energy mix, with the goal of becoming the energy leader our region needs,” said Minister Burduja.

According to a World Bank study, the theoretical offshore wind energy potential in the Black Sea reaches 76 GW. Combined with the gas production from the Neptun Deep perimeter, this initiative will enhance Romania’s energy security and contribute to the competitiveness and resilience of its economy.

The Ministry of Energy is ed in this effort by renowned international partners such as the World Bank and the European Commission, through the TSI instrument of the Secretariat-General REFORM.

Romania aims to develop at least 3 GW of installed offshore wind capacity by 2035, in line with its European-level commitments.

The Ministry of Energy reaffirms its commitment to a sustainable, secure, and competitive energy transition and encourages all relevant stakeholders — companies, consortia, and research institutes — to take an active role in this transformative process that seeks to turn the Black Sea’s energy potential into a real driver of Romania’s clean energy future.