Romanian transmission system operator Transelectrica SA has secured over RON 351 million (EUR 67 million) from the European Union’s Modernisation Fund to digitalize and modernize the national power grid.
Transelectrica signed the two financing contracts with the Ministry of Energy, following application approvals by the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Commission.
The investments aim to increase operational safety and efficiency while expanding the grid’s capacity to integrate new renewable energy generation, Transelectrica said.
The funding covers two major investment projects
The funding covers two major investment projects: DigiTEL Smart Lines Expansion and Gutinaș substation voltage regulation.
DigiTEL Smart Lines Expansion has received RON 97.65 million (EUR 18.62 million). This project involves acquiring and installing online monitoring systems for 27 overhead power lines across Romania.
It introduces dynamic line rating (DLR) technology, delivering real-time weather-adjusted data to optimize power line transmission capacity, reduce risks, and boost reliability.
The initiative is included in the 2026–2035 grid development plan, according to the update.
Gutinaș substation voltage regulation project is labelled EU PCI project
RON 253.49 million (EUR 48.35 million) was allocated for Gutinaș substation voltage regulation. This initiative focuses on modernizing the power transmission network in the Moldova region.
The Gutinaș station, a critical part of the grid in eastern Romania, will be equipped with a ±150 MVAr STATCOM system connected to a 400 kV busbar.
This will enable rapid, continuous reactive power adjustment, reduce estimated technical losses by 3,283 MWh per year, and support the integration of about 500 MW of additional renewable energy, the company explained.
The project is part of the CARMEN initiative and is recognized as an EU project of common interest (PCI).
According to Transelectrica, securing these funds allows it to advance its long-term strategy of modernizing transmission infrastructure, boosting operational safety, and supporting the national and European energy transition.
