Romania is increasingly aligning with European trends in the energy transition, with farms becoming active players in the renewable energy sector. According to AFIR data, during the green energy funding sessions held in 2023–2024, 581 projects were selected, with a total value of €110.4 million, aimed at installing photovoltaic panels in farms and processing units.

These investments seek not only to reduce energy costs but also to lower the carbon footprint of agricultural activities. The payback period depends on the size of the system and the farm’s own consumption, being estimated on average at 6–8 years. In rural areas with high energy demand and access to funding programs, the amortization period may decrease to 4–5 years.

An increasing number of farms are opting for integrated systems with storage batteries, which allow energy use at night and reduce dependence on the grid. At the same time, local cooperation models are developing—so-called “rural energy communities”—through which several farms share the energy produced.

Experts believe that although the initial investments are high, the long-term advantages are clear: reduced energy costs, stability in production, and alignment with the new European standards on climate neutrality in agriculture by 2050.

(Photo: Freepik)