Contributions for green energy remain unchanged in Romania in 2016

The contribution paid by individuals and small companies to support the wind and photovoltaic energy sectors in Romania will remain unchanged next year, although it should grow by 20% according to the EU directives. The fee amounts to RON 35 per MWh (EUR 7.8 per MWh), according to a draft project published on the website of the Economy Ministry, reports local Economica.net. Considering an average monthly consumption of 200 kWh, one person should contribute about RON 7 (EUR 1.57 per month). The level corresponds to a mandatory quota of renewable energy of 12.5% of the total production. In 2016, the level should increase to 17%. Big industrial energy consumers are exempted from paying up to 85% of their green energy contribution. Romania had started with a very generous support scheme for renewable energy projects, but decided to cut the subsidies for this sector in 2014, when it became obvious that the high number of green certificate granted to wind and solar energy producers would lead to a steep increase in electricity prices for end-consumers. This has led to big losses for the renewable energy producers, which had to readjust their projects. editor@romania-insider.com