In recent years, accelerated energy sector investment has led to a significant increase in technical connection permits (ATR). Since 2022, over 5.5 GW of photovoltaic and wind capacity has been commissioned, covering 40-50% of electricity production during daytime. However, many ATRs will not materialise, causing a "paper" overload of the grid.

The need for a filtering mechanism to discourage speculative projects is real and recognised by the industry, which proposed measures like guarantees for ATR issuance in 2019, implemented only in 2024. The industry also proposed automatic termination of connection permits if projects don't obtain necessary authorisations within set timeframes, an idea later adopted by ANRE. However, the current regulation imposes such restrictive conditions that it affects even viable investments.

"We call for a coherent and balanced regulation that filters speculative projects, reflects ground realities, supports investments and contributes to accelerating energy transition. It's essential that Romania maintains a predictable and competitive framework," said RWEA and RPIA representatives.

According to industry estimates, over €700 million has been invested in energy project development during the permitting phase alone. The sector currently employs over 70,000 full-time workers, expected to exceed 100,000 by 2030 to meet National Integrated Energy and Climate Change Plan targets of over 10 GW in photovoltaic and 7 GW in wind energy.