The Romanian Ministry of Energy has announced a public call for expressions of interest to conduct a comprehensive study aimed at identifying and mapping potential offshore wind farm zones in the Black Sea. This initiative supports Romania’s broader strategy to prepare for maritime concessions dedicated to offshore wind energy development.
The study’s primary goal is to enable the deployment of at least 3 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2035, in line with Romania’s European commitments. According to the Ministry, this step represents a strategic effort to unlock the Black Sea’s vast, yet underutilized, renewable energy potential.
Energy Minister Sebastian Burduja highlighted the Black Sea’s crucial role in boosting Romania’s energy independence and regional influence. He noted that past underexploitation of maritime resources can be reversed by investing in offshore wind and gas extraction projects. Citing a World Bank report, Burduja mentioned the Black Sea’s theoretical offshore wind potential of approximately 76 GW. By leveraging both gas resources from the Neptun Deep field and offshore wind energy, Romania aims to build a more resilient and competitive energy sector.
The forthcoming study will provide a scientifically rigorous foundation for policy-making and investment decisions related to offshore concessions. It will offer a transparent framework to guide investors and align with international best practices. Key elements of the study will include evaluating wind energy potential, seabed conditions, environmental and biodiversity impacts, and the integration of offshore wind projects into the national electricity grid. Additionally, the study will assess how these energy developments can coexist with other maritime activities such as shipping, fishing, resource extraction, and defense operations.
