Caspian Energy (CE): Dear Mr. Burduja, how do you assess the results of COP29 and what key outcomes from COP29 do you think will significantly impact Romania’s energy strategy in the coming years?
Sebastian Burduja, Minister of Energy of Romania: COP29 underscored the global commitment to accelerating the transition to clean energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. For Romania, the conference’s emphasis on regional cooperation and sustainable energy projects is particularly pertinent. The establishment of the joint venture company by Azerbaijan, Georgia, Romania, and Hungary to construct a submarine cable across the Black Sea is a testament to this commitment. This project aims to link planned renewable energy production in Azerbaijan to Europe, enhancing energy security and diversification. Such initiatives align with Romania’s strategic goals and will significantly influence our energy policies in the coming years.
CE: How is Romania planning to accelerate its energy transition to meet EU climate targets while ensuring energy security?
Sebastian Burduja: Romania has long met current EU climate targets, being the first country in the EU as regards the reduction of GHG emissions. Between 1990-2022, Romania reduced GHG emissions by a record 77%, while EU average stands at 33%. Therefore, Romania has achieved EU emissions reduction targets for 2030 in 2015. This is primarily led by the energy transition.
Nonetheless, we are investing 18 bln. euros in the deployment of renewable energy capacities, storage and energy transmission. Moreover, the development of new nuclear capacities, such as the construction of reactors 3 and 4 at the Cernavodă Power Plant, is central to our strategy. These projects will bolster Romania’s energy profile in line with European decarbonization objectives.
CE: Given Romania’s reliance on coal, how does the government plan to manage the economic and social impacts of the coal phase-out?
Sebastian Burduja: Romania is currently only reliant on coal for 15% of its generation capacity. This baseload capacity is needed for the stability of the energy sector. Renewable energy sources cannot by themselves replace coal, nuclear and gas. In the current unstable security and geopolitical context, Romania will continue to use its coal capacity until it will be possible to replace it with other viable sources.
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