New National Study to Map Low-Conflict Sites for Renewable Energy Across Romania
Media Contacts
-
Barbara Kužnik
Marketing and Communications Manager
The Nature Conservancy
Email: barbara.kuznik@tnc.org -
Mihai Constantin
Senior Researcher
Energy Policy Group (EPG)
Phone: +40 721 645 267
Email: mihai.constantin@epg-thinktank.org
The Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Environment, Waters and Forests, The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and the Energy Policy Group (EPG) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding establishing cooperation for developing the “Romania Smart Siting” study. This joint initiative will identify land for solar, wind and geothermal energy where there are high technical potential and low conflict with social and biodiversity values across the country, supporting a balanced and credible approach to Romania’s energy transition.
Under the European Union’s Renewable Energy Directive (RED III), Member States must identify suitable areas for renewable energy deployment to achieve their National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs), a significant part of which should be the fast-tracked permitting areas—so called Renewable Acceleration Areas (RAAs). Doing an upfront spatial mapping to designate low-conflict areas for renewables is essential for accelerating clean energy investment and ensuring that development takes place in locations that minimise environmental and social impacts not only to achieve climate and biodiversity goals in tandem but also to derisk projects by taking people on board.
A key component of the study is the characterisation of low-conflict sites—areas with minimal risk to biodiversity and communities and which meet essential technical criteria for renewable energy development. These areas are broader than the RAAs defined in Directive (EU) 2023/2413, and while not all low-conflict sites will become RAAs, mapping them nationwide will support responsible renewable deployment both within and beyond designated acceleration zones. This will guide relevant stakeholders to be aware of the kind of additional mitigation measures needed when deploying renewables on those medium-impact areas. Hence will help derisk projects as well as the biodiversity.
Contributing to the EU 2030 renewable energy target—at least 42.5% renewable energy in final consumption, aiming for 45%—this cooperation also aligns with the European Green Deal’s long-term climate neutrality objective for 2050. With this memorandum, the institutions involved reaffirm their commitment to advancing renewable energy in a responsible and evidence-based manner.
Jasenice Wind Plant, Zadar County, Croatia
Marking the formal launch of the Romania Smart Siting study, the memorandum sets the foundation for a national effort to guide sustainable renewable energy planning. As part of this effort, the partners will coordinate to establish a general course of action for the framework needed to develop spatial planning maps for renewable acceleration areas, ensuring alignment with EU requirements and national planning objectives
Beyond identifying low-conflict areas for clean energy development, the study will serve as a dialogue platform bringing together national and local authorities, grid operators, energy associations, academia and civil society. This collaborative space will help address challenges, share perspectives and strengthen informed decision-making in shaping Romania’s renewable energy future.
“The Ministry of Energy’s priority in designating dedicated areas for the development of renewable energy projects is a strategic step toward accelerating the energy transition and strengthening appropriate environmental mitigation measures. These areas aim for efficient planning, reduce bureaucracy, and create favourable conditions for the rapid implementation of clean technologies, while maintaining ecosystem balance. By directing investments into these zones, enable to build a modern and sustainable energy infrastructure, reduce environmental pressure, and support an innovation-driven economy. Each designated area thus represents a genuine commitment to a greener and more responsible future.”
Sorin Elisei, General Director, Ministry of Energy
“Romania’s energy transition must be ambitious, responsible and realistic. By joining forces through this memorandum, we are laying the foundation for renewable energy expansion in places where it is technically and economically viable, environmentally sound, and socially acceptable. The Smart Siting study is a rare opportunity for evidence-based policymaking aimed at guiding investment toward low-conflict areas, reducing permitting bottlenecks and strengthening public trust. EPG is proud to contribute its expertise to a joint project that will help Romania meet its 2030 targets while safeguarding the natural and social fabric of our communities.”
Radu Dudău, President, Energy Policy
“Accelerating the Energy Transition: Romania’s Commitment to a Sustainable Future Romania is committed to accelerating the energy transition by scaling up renewable energy production as a central pillar of climate action. This transition must be just, effective, and inclusive, ensuring long-term sustainable development. By investing strategically in green energy, Romania, Romanian businesses and citizens contribute directly to the global goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C. Global and regional cooperation, community engagement, and the active involvement of youth are key to meeting climate goals. Every accelerated action taken today strengthens our path toward a sustainable and resilient future. Romania is determined to lead by example, turning ambition into tangible climate solutions.”
Cristina Petrache, Director General, General Directorate for International Relations and European Affairs, Ministry of Environment, Waters and Forests
“Romania has an immense untapped opportunity when it comes to the deployment of renewable energy. With its pristine biodiversity from the Carpathians to the Danube, the country needs to be smart in careful spatial planning to go fast with the renewables. We are thrilled to be working with Romania's leading institutions in this project to ensure that renewable energy acceleration is happening at the speed and scale needed, while in harmony with priorities for nature and local communities.”
Elif Gündüzyeli, Europe Renewable Energy Program Director, The Nature Conservancy
The Nature Conservancy is a global conservation organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends. Guided by science, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that nature and people can thrive together. We are tackling climate change, conserving lands, waters and oceans at an unprecedented scale, providing food and water sustainably and helping make cities more resilient. The Nature Conservancy is working to make a lasting difference around the world in 83 countries and territories (39 by direct conservation impact and 44 through partners) through a collaborative approach that engages local communities, governments, the private sector, and other partners. To learn more, visit nature.org or follow @nature_press on X.
Related Reading
How Offshore Wind Can Restore Europe's Lost Oyster Reefs
Europe's offshore wind expansion offers a unique chance to restore native oyster reefs—uniting clean energy, climate action, and ocean habitat recovery.
New Collaboration Launches to Accelerate Renewable Energy in Portugal in Harmony with Priorities for Nature and People
The Nature Conservancy, Laboratório Nacional de Energia e Geologian (LNEG), and The Portuguese Renewable Energy Association (APREN) Join Forces to Map Suitable Locations for Wind and Solar Development
How to Build a Renewable Energy Future in Europe that Is Good for People and Nature
To go climate-neutral, Europe must accelerate its renewable energy. If we site solar and wind projects smartly, we'll reduce costs, conserve natural and cultural resources, and support equity.