Romania may pivot from offshore drilling to offshore wind

There is huge potential for offshore wind in the Black Sea, but the new government must quickly adopt a sound regulatory framework if it is to attract investors.

Romania has talked about expanding Black Sea production of oil and gas about for many years but—following a number of setbacks and delays—the discussion has recently moved increasingly towards the potential for offshore wind development. Several studies have highlighted the promising conditions for large-scale development of both bottom-fixed and floating installations, including the European Commission’s Offshore Renewable Energy Strategy. A recent study by Bucharest-based thinktank Energy Policy Group suggests the potential for offshore wind in Romanian waters is around 95GW. Nevertheless, plenty of political support will be needed to get major projects off the ground. Romania has a new go