On December 4, Romania reached a new record for electricity imports, surpassing 3,000 MW for the first time in recent years. At 9:48 AM, real-time data from Transelectrica, the country’s electricity transmission system operator, indicated imports of 3,058 MW. This figure, while significant, is not yet at peak levels, as national consumption at the time was 8,628 MW, lower than Transelectrica’s estimated winter peak of around 9,500 MW.
The high import levels were driven by low domestic generation, particularly from hydroelectric sources, which contributed less than 1,400 MW, along with weak wind conditions. As a result, imports accounted for over one-third of the country’s total energy consumption.
Romania’s interconnection lines are capable of transferring up to 3,500 MW from neighboring networks, and the 3,000 MW import level is approaching the technical limit. Transelectrica forecasts that winter peak consumption could reach 9,500 MW during extreme cold spells. In such cases, the country will need substantial electricity imports, especially if renewable energy sources like wind farms do not generate sufficient power during evening consumption peaks.
Virgiliu Ivan, head of the National Energy Dispatch Center, noted that while evening consumption typically peaks around 9,000 MW during winter, extreme cold can push this figure to 9,500 MW. With Romania’s reliance on renewable energy, the country may face a situation where up to 3,000 MW must be imported during these peak periods. Transelectrica’s winter energy plan confirms that Romania will not be able to meet its electricity demands solely through domestic production in any month of the upcoming winter season.
