Transelectrica has partnered with Delgaz Grid and ESO in a major cross-border energy modernization project aimed at improving regional electricity infrastructure and accelerating the transition toward cleaner energy systems.
The financing agreement for the CARMEN Smart Grid project, worth approximately 207 million euros, was officially signed on 22 May in Copenhagen during the Energy Infrastructure Forum. The agreement was finalized with representatives of the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency in the presence of senior officials from the European Commission.
European financing will contribute nearly 104 million euros to the initiative through the European Union’s Connecting Europe Facility program, which supports Projects of Common Interest. The remaining funding will be provided directly by the participating companies. Delgaz Grid, part of the E.ON group in Romania, will manage investments worth 77.5 million euros, with almost 39 million covered by EU grants. Transelectrica will invest around 70.7 million euros, supported by approximately 35.4 million euros in non-reimbursable European financing. Meanwhile, ESO’s investment share amounts to 59.3 million euros, with 29.6 million euros financed through European support.
The CARMEN initiative is the first Smart Grids Project of Common Interest in Romania to receive European financial support for the modernization of both transmission and distribution electricity networks. The project aims to strengthen infrastructure through advanced digital technologies while allowing greater integration of renewable energy production into the regional power system.
Planned improvements include network automation, modernization of existing infrastructure and the installation of advanced monitoring systems designed to improve reliability, operational flexibility and overall energy security. The project will also increase cross-border electricity exchange capacity between Romania and Bulgaria by reducing network congestion and enhancing interconnection capabilities.
Advanced smart-grid technologies such as Dynamic Line Rating systems, FACTS equipment and real-time monitoring solutions are expected to improve supply stability while helping transmission and distribution operators coordinate more efficiently through shared digital platforms and enhanced data exchange systems.
The broader goal of the project is to support European climate objectives by improving renewable energy integration, increasing energy efficiency and developing infrastructure capable of supporting the European Union’s long-term decarbonization strategy.
