Romanians used more energy during the first nine months of this year. The country's electricity consumption went up by 4.8 percent from January to September this year, compared to the same period last year, according to data from Transelectrica, quoted by Romanian media.

Romania consumed 44.5 TWh of electricity during these nine months, while the production of electricity stood at 46.5 TWh. The remainder was exported, and exports grew by 33 percent during this period, year-on-year. The increase in consumption could be explained by the high temperatures and the higher use of air conditioning.

Romania consumed 50.5 TWh of electricity last year, 3.8 percent more compared to 2009. The growth in electricity consumption is one of the unofficial indicators of the economic evolution of a country, as the population usually cuts down on electricity use during tough times.

Corina Saceanu. corina@romania-insider.com

(photo source: photoxpress.com)