Energy Minister Sebastian Burduja visited the Lotru-Ciunget hydroelectric power plant, which he considers “the backbone of Romanian hydropower.” During the visit, the minister emphasized the remarkable importance of this project, presenting Lotru-Ciunget as one of Romania’s most impressive engineering achievements.
Located in the heart of the Lotru Mountains, the hydroelectric power plant, completed in the 70s, is a technical masterpiece and a symbol of the determination and vision of the engineers and workers who contributed to the transformation of the country's hydroelectric resources. The project has an installed capacity of over 510 MW, 82 secondary intakes and over 150 km of underground galleries, fully exploiting the potential of the Lotru River and a 675 km2 hydrographic basin.
"In the entire Lotru hydropower development, we have a total of 643 MW, almost as much as a nuclear reactor from Cernavoda. The 60 MW bonus in pumping, intended to ensure an optimal flow for the Lotru-Ciunget hydropower plant, completes this remarkable achievement", declared Minister Burduja.
In addition to recalling technical achievements, the minister paid tribute to the father of Romanian hydropower, Prof. Dorin Pavel, who documented the area's potential since 1933. "Today, on site, I felt the strength of the vision of those who shaped the mountains to transform water into light. They are the true builders of modern Romania," Burduja emphasized, reaffirming the government's commitment to completing the hydropower plants started before 1989.
The Minister of Energy also announced that this year the Rastolita hydroelectric power plant will be put into operation, a strategic project in the fight for Romania's energy independence. "We are fighting with all our strength against those who do NOT want Romania to be energy independent. Our vision is clear: to make the most of what previous generations started and to carry forward the vision of a strong Romania," Burduja said.
In conclusion, the minister recalled the words of Dimitrie Leonida: "Energy is life. Having energy means having the strength to build, to transform, to lead a people to the future." These words, according to the minister, reflect the essence of the efforts made to develop the energy sector, emphasizing that projects such as Lotru-Ciunget are proof of Romania's capacity to build greatness through work and innovation.
Lotru-Ciunget thus remains a landmark of engineering and a symbol of the Romanian people's passion for progress, demonstrating that the country's energy future is based on the valorization of natural resources and respect for the achievements of the past.
