The energy transition is already here, and OMV Petrom has a budget of 3.5 billion euros for investments in this decade in products with zero or low carbon emissions, said Christina Verchere, at the Efficient Romania Forum. The company invests in renewables, with a suite of projects totaling over 3 GW, invests in biofuels – there are investments of about 750 million euros at Petrobrazi in progress and continues decarbonization by installing fast and ultra-fast electric charging stations in the gas station network, said Verchere. But the investments do not stop there: the company has helped the Efficient Romania project, which, among other things, renovates schools in rural areas in disadvantaged areas, Verchere also said at the Efficient Romania Forum, a regional reference event in the field of energy efficiency in buildings. The event took place on May 26, in Bucharest, and had as its central theme the just and equitable transition towards a climate-neutral future of the built environment.
Radu Dudău, President of the Energy Policy Group (EPG) and coordinator of the Efficient Romania program, explained the choice of this theme in the context of the upcoming introduction of the ETS 2 mechanism, the European green certificate trading system that will profoundly influence the buildings, transport and small industry sectors.
“ETS 2 will change the rules of the game. It is essential to understand the implications and prepare in advance for the transformations that will follow”, declared Radu Dudău.
Christina Verchere, CEO of OMV Petrom, emphasized the role of the Forum as a space for dialogue between experts, dedicated to identifying the best solutions for energy efficiency:
“Only by debating essential themes can we accelerate the efficiency and decarbonization of buildings, at the pace necessary to achieve climate goals”.
If the Efficient Romania 2025 Forum had a motto, it would be: “Only together will we succeed”. Without the involvement of everyone, from decision-makers and experts to local communities, the green transition in the building sector cannot advance.
“Only through well-thought-out solutions, correctly applied and with care for the vulnerable can we build an efficient and equitable future”, drew the attention of Constantin Postoiu, Head of Data Analytics, EPG.
Eugen Pănescu, architect and representative of Romania in the Architects’ Council of Europe, pleaded for an integrated approach to energy performance and building renovation: “All actors involved must know and assume their role – from the authorities that provide the legislative framework and financing, to the professionals that provide technical solutions, to the building users who can contribute daily to reducing energy waste”.
At the heart of this transformation is understanding the benefits. Zero-emission buildings (ZEB) offer comfort, health and significant savings.
“It all starts with a simple question: do we really understand the benefits? The answer will make the difference between stagnation and progress,” said Horia Petran, President of Cluster-PRO nZEB.
Eliza Barnea, Just Transition Campaign Coordinator, Bankwatch Romania highlighted the essential role of people in this process: “People are the heart of the energy transition. Informed, involved and listened to, they can turn projects into reality. Constant communication, from the grassroots to the national level, is the key to real collaboration between authorities and communities.”
In terms of financing, Romania has access to substantial European funds for the energy renovation of buildings. However, moderate renovations predominate, while in-depth renovations with real impact are still rare.
“The challenge is to use the available resources to their maximum potential,” said Mihai Moia, Executive Director of ROENEF.
Cătălin Lungu, President of OAER, emphasized that European funds are important, but insufficient: “Public-private partnership is the key to sustainable transformation. The Efficient Romania Program demonstrates what can be achieved by involving private capital: schools renovated to nZEB standards, better conditions for students and teachers, more energy-efficient communities.”
