Romania to shift Casa Verde Program focus to energy storage

Romania's Environment Minister, Diana Buzoianu, announced that the Casa Verde Program will be modified in 2026 to focus exclusively on financing energy storage systems rather than photovoltaic panels. The shift aims to address imbalances in the energy system where significant funds were previously allocated to solar production while storage investments remained minimal.

The new program structure is expected to install at least 200 MWh of storage capacity. This energy will be utilized during peak consumption periods, such as evenings, to reduce the need for energy imports and increase national energy independence.

Additionally, the Minister criticized the current 'first-come, first-served' method of fund allocation through the Environment Fund Administration, describing it as an unfair 'arms race' for clicks. New policies will be implemented to change how these funds are distributed.