CE Oltenia has permanently shut down the power plants in Turceni and Ișalnița, following the withdrawal of licenses by ANRE, affecting 4,500 employees.

The Oltenia Energy Complex (CE Oltenia) has permanently shut down two coal-fired power units at the Turceni and Ișalnița power plants, following the withdrawal of operating licenses by the National Energy Regulatory Authority (ANRE). This decision, which comes into effect on November 24, marks the complete cessation of operations of these units. CE Oltenia now operates five power units, and the Ministry of Energy has confirmed that they will function this winter.

Minister Bogdan Ivan emphasized that protecting jobs for the 4,500 affected employees is a priority, considering that they represent almost half of the total 8,500 employees of the company. Discussions with the European Commission will continue to analyze post-2026 options for the remaining units. Additionally, Ivan warned about the risks of blackouts in the event of the closure of coal units, highlighting Romania's decarbonization commitments.