Romanian electricity producer Hidroelectrica is set to complete the long-awaited Rastolita hydropower plant in Mures County by the end of 2025, following government approval to clear over 30 hectares of forest to finalize construction.
Energy Minister Sebastian Burduja confirmed that the plant is 89% complete, with more than 144 million euros already invested in the project. Although construction began in 1989, the plant has faced numerous delays over the years.
Once finished, the Rastolita hydropower plant will be the first hydroelectric facility in recent Romanian history to be revived and completed after such a long hiatus. With an installed capacity of 35.2 MW, the plant is expected to produce 120 GWh of electricity annually, enough to power a small city. It will also play a significant role in supporting Romania’s transition to green energy.
The approval for deforestation was a key step in moving the project forward, as the final stages of construction involve modifying water flow and completing the reservoir. Despite some environmental concerns, the project is considered a strategic investment to enhance Romania’s renewable energy capacity and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.
