Transelectrica has energized the second STATCOM (Static Synchronous Compensator) installation in Romania’s Electricity Transmission Network (RET) at the 400/220/110/20 kV Bradu Transformer Substation, following the successful completion of pre-energization tests.
The investment, carried out under the project “Installation of Two Modern Reactive Power Compensation Systems at the Sibiu Sud and Bradu Substations”, financed through the Modernisation Fund, represents a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing the operational security of Romania’s National Power System (SEN) and modernizing the country’s energy infrastructure.
The energization of the Bradu STATCOM comes at an important operational moment, coinciding with the Pentecost holiday period and Children’s Day (May 31 – June 1, 2026), a timeframe typically characterized by lower electricity demand and elevated voltage levels in the grid. Under these conditions, the new installation will be operated on a trial basis under the supervision of the National Energy Dispatcher (DEN), directly contributing to voltage regulation and the maintenance of grid stability.
Together with the similar installation commissioned in December 2025 at the 400/220/110/20 kV Sibiu Sud Transformer Substation, the Bradu STATCOM completes a modern reactive power compensation system capable of responding rapidly to network fluctuations and supporting the safe and stable operation of the National Power System, particularly during periods of low electricity consumption.
At the same time, operational teams from the National Energy Dispatcher and Transelectrica’s regional units have implemented additional monitoring and preparedness measures to ensure the safe, reliable, and balanced operation of Romania’s transmission network throughout the Pentecost holiday period. The full program of technical tests and commissioning activities for the Bradu STATCOM installation will continue after the holiday period, in accordance with the approved technical documentation.
The total value of the project is approximately RON 260 million, of which around RON 254 million consists of non-repayable financing from the Modernisation Fund. The works are being carried out by the consortium Siemens Energy SRL – Electromontaj SA. The contractual completion deadline is August 2026, ahead of the May 2027 deadline established under the financing agreement.
To date, Transelectrica has submitted reimbursement requests exceeding RON 130 million, of which RON 30.8 million has already been reimbursed. The investment is part of Transelectrica’s portfolio of 11 strategic projects financed through the Modernisation Fund.