Wedoany.com Report-Apr. 20, Romania’s Energy Regulatory Authority (ANRE) has introduced draft rules to improve grid connection processes, addressing concerns raised by the energy market. According to Nyerges & Partners, a Bucharest-based law firm, the proposed changes respond to issues with existing grid connection regulations. The draft follows ANRE’s approval of an auction-based system for connecting new power plants of 5 MW or more, set to take effect in January 2026.

The proposed rules allow developers to extend grid connection agreements for 12-month periods upon payment of a 5% guarantee per extension. No specific project progress is required for approval, except when delays stem from grid operator responsibilities, such as connection installation or reinforcement work. Mihaela Nyerges of Nyerges & Partners told pv magazine: “The previous legislative gap led to inconsistent practices among grid operators. Notably, the transmission system operator recently adopted internal extension conditions that raised concerns across the market. These conditions were unilaterally included in all new connection agreements signed since the beginning of the year, without room for negotiation.”

Nyerges praised ANRE’s initiative, stating: “ANRE’s move to implement a unified extension framework – together with the obligation for grid operators to align existing agreements accordingly – is a highly welcome and constructive intervention.” The draft extends the deadline for submitting extension requests from 30 to 45 days before a grid connection permit expires.

Additionally, ANRE proposes that the 5% guarantee, previously required at the signing of the connection agreement, be submitted within two months of receiving an endorsed solution study. Failure to comply will result in the rejection of the connection application. Nyerges described this as “another significant improvement” to deter speculative projects, noting: “Until now, the absence of a clear deadline allowed developers to delay payment, rendering the measure ineffective. The ANRE draft now addresses this gap by imposing a two-month deadline from the endorsement of the solution study. Failure to comply results in the rejection of the connection application.”

The draft also clarifies final commissioning deadlines, connections to 110 kV or higher grids, and operational limitations not covered by reinforcement works. ANRE has opened a public consultation on the draft, accepting feedback until April 21, 2025. Romania’s solar sector added 1.7 GW in 2024, bringing its total solar capacity to nearly 5 GW, underscoring the importance of streamlined grid connection processes.