Romania’s strong growth potential, proximity, and the presence of major industrial players make it an attractive market for renewable energy investments, but investors remain cautious about regulatory and execution risks, said Volkan Aktürk, Assistant General Manager – Strategy and Business Development Entek Elektrik, at the Energynomics conference “Regional Approach Istanbul: Investments in energy”.

Entek’s first project in Romania, an approximately 200 MW solar plant, was planned with conservative price expectations, but execution remains complex, particularly in the permitting phase.

“Even projects that are considered ready-to-build are not fully ready. There are always issues, notifications, and updates, especially in relation to the TSO,” said Aktürk, pointing to delays caused by the high volume of projects and slower response times from authorities. But, despite these hurdles, he noted that authorities are taking steps to streamline the market. Beyond regulatory aspects, external factors such as geopolitical tensions are also affecting the sector.

He pointed out that several major companies from Koç Holding are already active in Romania, including Arctic, Beko and Ford Romania, while other group businesses are also entering the market. These are all relevant encouraging elements for building renewables capacities in Romania.

Geographical proximity between the two countries is another key factor.

“I can drive to Bucharest in seven or eight hours. This proximity plays a significant role in our investment decisions,” he said.

The conference “Regional Approach Istanbul” was organized by Energynomics, with the support of our partners: Elektra Renewable Support, 4P Renewables, Entek Elektrik, MyEnerji, PowerKonnekt, Solar Today.