Romania has been actively engaging in energy exports, countering misinformation about energy shortages as it strengthens its partnerships with neighboring countries, especially Moldova. Key officials, including Casian Niţulescu and Minister of Energy Sebastian Burduja, have provided clarifications and insights on the nation's energy stocks, emphasizing Romania's role as both supplier and stabilizing force.
Casian Niţulescu, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Energy, recently rebutted claims about Romania providing free electricity and gas to Moldova. "I can tell you I am actually the co-chair on matters of electricity and natural gas with my Moldovan counterpart," he stated on Radio România Actualități. He emphasized the commercial nature of energy exports to Moldova, underlining the importance of these transactions for strengthening bilateral relations. "Romania supports and will continue to support the good functioning of the energy system in Moldova. They are our partners across the Prut River, they speak Romanian, and it is normal for us to help them. But, of course, this is within the limits of commercial contracts and on the basis of fee-based agreements," Niţulescu explained.
The discussion also touched on the European Union's response to rising energy prices, especially concerning carbon certificate fees. Niţulescu remarked, "Ideally, during this period of energy crisis, it would be best to eliminate the costs of carbon certificates, which double electricity and natural gas prices." He highlighted the importance of supportive measures from the European Commission to navigate the current energy challenges, especially for Moldova and Ukraine.
Meanwhile, Energy Minister Sebastian Burduja has been proactive on social media, dispelling fears of gas shortages this winter. "We have sufficient stocks to get through the winter," he stated on Facebook. Burduja outlined Romania's strong position, explaining, "We have 2,000 units stored, consuming 20 units per day; so, over two months, we will consume 1,200 million normal cubic meters, leaving us with 800 million normal cubic meters.” This assurance is significant, particularly as he countered rumors of expensive gas imports from Ukraine, clarifying, "There is no real basis to support claims about importing expensive gas from Ukraine. Yes, Romania exports gas to Moldova through private suppliers, but these transactions do not impact national consumption."
Burduja also highlighted Romania's achievements, noting, "Last year, Romania became the largest gas producer in the European Union, and starting 2027, the Neptun Deep project will double our national production." This is viewed as key to establishing Romania as less reliant on external powers, particularly Russia. "That means being strong and truly master of our fate, not just succumbing to the Russian frost," he concluded.
The conversation around energy security has intensified amid the backdrop of European energy market challenges, particularly as reliance on Russian gas diminishes. Both Niţulescu and Burduja are advocating for continued investment and regulatory support to establish Romania not just as an energy consumer, but as a formidable player and exporter on the European energy stage.
Both officials have affirmed their commitment to collaborating with the European Commission, aiming to navigate the delicate balance of managing domestic consumption, export commitments, and humanitarian support during regional crises. With winter approaching, the emphasis remains on preparedness and strategic planning to uphold Romania's role as both energy provider and regional stabilizer.
Romania's energy narrative is not only about internal reserves but about its position within the larger European energy framework, ensuring cooperative strategies prevail as the continent faces serious energy challenges. The clear communication from government officials serves to bolster public confidence as well as regional partnerships, promoting stability through shared resources.