“Biomethane should be viewed from the perspective of its tremendous potential as an innovative element. Essentially, biomethane addresses two key challenges and priorities for Romania. On one hand, it contributes to the decarbonization of the economy, and on the other, it strengthens independence and energy security.

When it comes to decarbonization, biomethane is essentially a circular fuel because the production process involves transforming waste — agricultural, animal, and other types of waste — into clean energy,” stated Oana Ijdelea, Member of the Board at Black Sea Oil & Gas, during the Green Energy Conference organized by The Diplomat-Bucharest.

Key statements

• Looking at emissions, the results show a clear net positive impact. From the perspective of energy security, having a biomethane production branch within the industry provides diversification for Romania’s already broad portfolio compared to other EU member states.
• In this way, biomethane can serve as a backup for natural gas production and, in the future, may even replace the role hydrocarbons currently play.
• Importantly, due to the development profile of such projects, biomethane strongly supports rural communities and agriculture, since investments in this sector are directed exclusively toward rural areas.
• Romania has committed, through its National Energy and Climate Plan (PNIESC), to reach a target of at least 5% biomethane injected into the National Gas Transmission System by 2030—equivalent to more than 4 million MWh.
• As we see it, this target cannot be achieved unless large-scale projects are developed, with the capacity to inject biomethane directly into the transmission grid.
• Our industry has initiated a very strong dialogue with the Ministry of Energy, ANRE (Energy Regulatory Authority), and Transgaz, along with the Association of Energy Suppliers and Distributors, precisely to ensure the creation of this framework. We were glad to see clear and dedicated support from the Government.
• At this moment, there is a draft emergency ordinance under public debate, but it does not fully address the entire value chain. Currently, the draft only allows for injection of biomethane into distribution systems. We believe it is imperative that injection into the National Transmission System also be permitted and included in this new legislation.
• Beyond that, there are still many operational issues to be resolved, regardless of the injection points such as measurement, balancing mechanisms, connection procedures, limitations, and grounds for refusal to connect. Equally important, we need a single supply license that covers both natural gas and biomethane. This is a major opportunity that Romania can monetize with relatively little effort from the state and market players.
• I believe that every sector of the energy industry deserves its rightful place at the table—both in terms of contribution and rights