Romania is launching the Mintia gas-fired power plant, which will initially operate with two turbines providing around 1,100 MW of capacity, according to the Romanian Ministry of Energy, as cited by Montel. The facility’s capacity is scheduled to increase to 1,700 MW by early 2027 following the installation of a third turbine.
Mintia becomes a primary EU combined cycle gas turbine hub
The Ministry of Energy identifies Mintia as one of the largest combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) plants in the European Union. This development follows severe droughts that reduced output from Romania’s nuclear and hydroelectric power sources, placing significant pressure on the national energy grid.
Did you know? The new gas facility is being constructed on the site of a decommissioned coal-fired power plant, transitioning the location from solid fuel to natural gas.
Mass Global Energy Rom manages the transition
Mass Global Energy Rom, a subsidiary of the Iraq-based Mass Group Holding, manages the project. The group acquired the Mintia assets in 2023. Mass Group Holding currently operates roughly 7,100 MW of capacity in Iraq and maintains diversified interests in the steel and cement industries, as well as renewable energy projects including wind farms in Jordan.
Transgaz invests €60 million in gas infrastructure
To fuel the plant, Transgaz constructed a dedicated gas pipeline connecting the facility to the BRUA (Bulgaria-Romania-Hungary-Austria) corridor. The project cost approximately €60 million and received partial funding from the Modernisation Fund.
Phase turbine counts increase total capacity
| Phase | Turbine Count | Total Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Start | 2 Turbines | ~1,100 MW |
| Early 2027 | 3 Turbines | 1,700 MW |
Common questions about the Mintia power plant
Who owns the Mintia plant?
The project is managed by Mass Global Energy Rom, which is part of the Iraqi Mass Group Holding after acquiring the assets in 2023.
How is the plant supplied with fuel?
Transgaz built a specialized pipeline connected to the BRUA corridor at a cost of roughly €60 million.
Why is Romania building this facility now?
The Ministry of Energy is responding to energy system strain caused by droughts that impacted hydroelectric and nuclear production.
The pipeline supporting the facility was partially financed by the Modernisation Fund.