Energy Minister Bogdan Ivan said on Thursday that authorities are also considering a “Plan B” scenario, which would involve a gradual reduction of the gas price cap, in case unlikely events disrupt the energy market.

Speaking after the meeting of the National Energy Command, Ivan explained that discussions with gas market operators began as early as September to prepare several working scenarios and prevent a price shock after March 31, 2026, when the current price cap is set to expire.

“Based on our current forecasts, we do not expect gas prices to increase after March 31, 2026. However, we are also considering a Plan B scenario, in which we would gradually reduce the price cap, in order to avoid a sudden shock for consumers, like what happened in the electricity market,” the minister said.

He added that even now there are suppliers offering gas below the capped price, given Romania’s sufficient domestic production. In addition, the start of production at the Neptun Deep offshore project in 2027 is expected to further strengthen supply security and stabilize prices.

According to Ivan, the gradual reduction mechanism could involve monthly decreases of around 8–10% until April 2027, with a focus on protecting consumers during the cold season, when gas consumption peaks.

“Our goal is to ensure a healthy and stable market, with fair prices for consumers, without brutal state intervention,” the minister concluded.

Source: Agerpres