DRI, the European renewable energy division of DTEK, has announced the completion of the 126 MWp Văcărești solar park in Romania. This project marks a significant step for the company, as it brings its total operational capacity in the country to nearly 300 MWp in a span of only three years. The site has already begun generating power and joins a portfolio that includes the Glodeni I and II solar parks and the Ruginoasa wind farm.
Construction on the Văcărești site began in January 2025 and was finished in less than twelve months. The facility is designed to produce enough renewable energy to supply 50,000 households and is estimated to prevent 48,600 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions every year. A major portion of the plant’s output is already committed. From January 2027, half of the energy produced will be sold to OMV Petrom, the largest integrated energy producer in Southeastern Europe. This arrangement follows a physical solar Power Purchase Agreement signed in late 2024.
The project was funded through a non-recourse financing package worth up to 60 million euros, provided by UniCredit and Garanti BBVA. This partnership with international lenders has been a key factor in the firm’s ability to deliver high-capacity infrastructure at pace. DRI also continues to engage with local communities near its sites, launching social initiatives focused on healthcare and education for young people in areas such as Văcărești, Ulmi and Lucieni.
Murat Cinar, CEO of DRI, said: “Reaching this level of capacity in such a short time shows our operational agility and commitment to high-quality delivery. By working closely with the national grid operators, local authorities, and reliable contractors, we were able to seamlessly complete the project and to the highest standards. This is a model we replicate across all our markets. In Romania, our priority now is to maximise the value of our operating assets and we will be exploring opportunities to enhance sustainable returns in the coming months ahead. We are ready to adapt as the market continues to evolve.”
Currently, DRI manages a 1.4 GW portfolio of wind, solar and battery storage projects at various stages of development across its priority markets in the European Union.