Romania’s Mintia gas-fired power plant is nearing its operational launch, aiming to bolster the nation’s energy grid with an initial capacity of 1,100 MW.
Transitioning from Coal to Combined-Cycle Gas
By replacing a legacy coal-fired plant, the project seeks to alleviate pressure on Romania’s national energy system, which has recently faced instability due to droughts impacting both hydroelectric and nuclear power production. The initiative is managed by Mass Global Energy Rom, a subsidiary of the Iraq-based Mass Group Holding. This parent company currently oversees approximately 7,100 MW of power capacity across Iraq and manages various renewable energy projects, including wind farms in Jordan.
Transgaz builds pipeline link with EU funding
To ensure a steady fuel supply, the facility will be connected to the BRUA gas pipeline via a dedicated link constructed by Transgaz. This infrastructure project carries a price tag of approximately €60 million and has received partial funding from the EU’s Modernization Fund. Beyond its energy portfolio, Mass Group Holding maintains significant operations in the steel and cement industries, providing the industrial background for this large-scale infrastructure deployment.
Why the Mintia plant supports Romania's energy grid?
Why is this power plant considered important for Romania’s energy grid?
The Mintia plant is designed to provide a stable, dispatchable power source to compensate for shortfalls in hydroelectric and nuclear generation. These renewable and baseload sources have been strained by recent periods of drought in the region, making the new 1,100 MW capacity vital for system reliability.
What is the timeline for the plant’s full capacity expansion?
The facility is scheduled to begin operations with two turbines providing 1,100 MW of capacity. A third turbine is slated for integration in early 2027, which will increase the plant’s total output to 1,700 MW.
How is the gas supply being secured for the new facility?
The plant will be supplied by a specialized gas pipeline connected to the BRUA corridor. This connection was built by Transgaz at an estimated cost of €60 million, with support from the European Union’s Modernization Fund.
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