OMV Petrom, the largest integrated energy producer in Southeastern Europe, and Complexul Energetic Oltenia (CE Oltenia) have taken a significant step in developing renewable energy in Romania, announcing the signing of design and execution contracts for four major photovoltaic parks. These projects, with a total installed capacity of approximately 550 MW, mark significant progress in the partnership between the two companies and in achieving national green energy goals.
The total capacity of the parks has been increased from the initial estimate of 450 MW, thanks to optimized technical solutions proposed by the contractors, which will maximize electricity production. The parks will be located on land owned by CE Oltenia in Gorj and Dolj counties, contributing to the economic revitalization of areas traditionally dependent on coal-based energy production. The annually generated electricity is estimated to cover the equivalent consumption of about 410,000 Romanian households and will be delivered to the National Power System.
Strategic investment supported by the Modernisation Fund
The total investment value exceeds 400 million euros, a substantial financial commitment shared equally between OMV Petrom and CE Oltenia (50% stake each). Approximately 70% of this amount comes from the Modernisation Fund, underscoring the strategic importance of the projects at the European and national levels within the context of the energy transition.
“The signing of these contracts represents a concrete step towards strengthening our presence in the renewable electricity generation sector,” stated Frank Neel, member of the OMV Petrom Executive Board, responsible for the Gas and Power business. “We have been active in electricity production since 2012, through the Brazi natural gas power plant […] Through our Strategy 2030, we aim to be a key player in Romania’s energy transition, with an ambitious target of developing 2.5 GW capacity, including through partnerships, from wind and solar sources.”
Internationally experienced contractors have been selected for the project implementation. A consortium formed by the US company Ameresco and the Greek company Sunel will design and build three of the parks (Rovinari, Tismana 1, and Tismana 2), totaling approximately 460 MW. The fourth park, of about 90 MW, will be built by the Turkish company Girisim Elektrik on the site of the former Ișalnița power plant, on the slag deposit.