Romanian energy minister reveals disparities in energy costs due to infrastructure gaps

Bucharest reported that Romania's energy market is facing significant challenges related to pricing disparities across Europe. On June 10, 2025, Romanian Energy Minister Sebastian Burduja expressed concerns about the existing cross-border energy infrastructure that inhibits the free flow of energy. As a result, energy prices vary substantially among member states, with Romania experiencing costs far higher than countries like France and Austria. Burduja pointed out that energy prices in Romania stood at 84 euros, while they were only 25 euros in France and 60 euros in Austria on the day-ahead market. Burduja identified the main reason for these price differences as the inadequate cross-border connectivity. He emphasized that the European energy market is only “unique on paper” and is hampered by the lack of essential infrastructure, referred to as 'wires' connecting the countries. This lack of infrastructure prevents Romanian consumers from accessing cheaper energy produced in nuclear power plants located in neighboring Western countries, leading to higher costs for Romanian citizens and businesses alike. The Minister noted that throughout his time in Brussels, he has consistently advocated for equal obligations and rights among member countries regarding energy interconnections. He believes this situation is critical to the shared goals of the European project, which originally began as a coal and steel union. Burduja plans to continue educating the public on the realities of the energy market and the disinformation that exists, as he emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying issues contributing to energy pricing in Romania and the broader region. Romania has an existing interconnection capacity of 4,000 megawatts (MW) with its neighbors and has set ambitious plans to expand this capacity to over 7,000 MW in the next five years. This expansion is viewed as necessary not only for achieving more equitable energy prices but also for fostering a more interconnected and efficient European energy market overall. Burduja's statements highlight urgent infrastructural needs and the challenges faced in making the European energy market truly cohesive and effective in serving its members, especially in the context of rising energy costs and security of supply.