Romania Plans Bid Round for Onshore and Offshore Gas Fields

Romania is planning to launch a new bid round for more than 30 fields in the attempt to monetize its natural gas deposits. The Eastern European country is trying to achieve energy independence and shale gas is one of the main options. The country is currently the fifth producer of hydrocarbons in the EU.

According to the National Agency for Mineral Resources (ANRM), Bucharest is about to launch tenders for 28 onshore and 8 Black Sea offshore fields. No deadlines or schedules were provided by ANRM.

Minister Delegate for Energy Constantin Nita met on Wednesday European Commissioner for Energy Gunther Oettinger. Nita confirmed that natural gas deposits are a strategic option, but did not provide more details about the bid round. 

US-based Chevron acquired three of the 20 fields auctioned in the 2010 bid round. Romania’s top energy company Petrom is another potential player. It said last month that it could be interested in shale gas operations in the country.