Romania is on the brink of a significant advancement in its energy transition, with the Mintia gas-fired power plant preparing for its initial connection to the national grid in the upcoming weeks. The transmission system operator, Transelectrica, has indicated that the project is ahead of schedule, aiming for mid-May as the target date for activating the first gas turbine.
The primary objective at this stage is to bring online the first turbine unit, which will contribute over 575 MW of installed capacity once it becomes operational. Prior to its synchronization with the grid, essential technical tasks remain, including on-site installations, system testing, staff training, and integration into the national SCADA control system. Following energization, a testing phase lasting at least one month will commence.
The broader vision for this development includes a combined-cycle gas power plant with a total capacity of up to 1,700 MW, positioning it among Europe’s largest facilities upon completion. With an anticipated annual output exceeding 12,000 GWh and an expected lifespan of around 30 years, this plant is poised to play a critical role in enhancing both Romanian and regional energy security.
Financial backing for the project includes a substantial loan of approximately $500 million, secured by Mass Group Holding earlier this year. This funding supports an overall investment estimated between €1.2 billion and €1.4 billion. The initiative is further reinforced by new gas infrastructure; Transgaz has finalized a pipeline system capable of delivering up to 2.5 billion cubic meters of gas annually.
The Mintia facility is being constructed on the site of a former coal-fired power plant that was decommissioned due to non-compliance with EU environmental regulations. Acquired by Mass Global Energy Rom in 2022, this site is being repurposed into a vital asset in Romania’s transition towards lower-emission generation, while also ensuring grid stability throughout this energy shift.
