Romania energy costs: Gas heating remains cheaper than electric

In Romania, a significant price gap has emerged between heating methods as of late 2026. Direct electric heating costs are projected to reach approximately 11,100 lei per year for a standard household, whereas efficient gas central heating systems remain significantly cheaper, estimated between 2,750 and 2,800 lei for 10,000 kWh.

Electricity prices in Bucharest reached approximately 1.11 lei/kWh in September 2026, with some competitive contracts exceeding 1.60–1.70 lei/kWh. In contrast, gas prices were noted at approximately 0.25423 lei/kWh in late August 2026. This disparity is influenced by regulatory changes: while gas price capping for domestic consumers continues through March 31, 2027, under OUG 12/2026, electricity price capping ended on July 1, 2025.

The true cost of heating depends on system efficiency. Modern condensing gas boilers can achieve efficiencies of 90% or higher, resulting in a cost of roughly 0.27 lei per kWh of heat delivered to the home. Conversely, electric resistance heaters are significantly less cost-effective due to the higher price of electricity compared to gas.