Romania mandates energy suppliers to alert customers at 80% consumption

Romania's energy watchdog, ANRE, has introduced new rules requiring electricity suppliers to inform customers about their consumption levels and provide energy-saving advice. Suppliers must now send alerts via SMS or email once a customer reaches 80% of their estimated monthly electricity usage. This move aims to enhance customer protection and promote more efficient energy use.

Furthermore, energy companies must establish free online accounts for consumers by October 1. These platforms will allow customers to track their energy consumption history, view usage trends, and manage their energy expenses. While optional for consumers, these digital tools are intended to improve transparency and customer engagement.

The new regulations also address energy communities, requiring entities that sell energy to third parties or trade surplus energy to obtain a supplier license or partner with an authorized operator. Exceptions are made for homeowner associations, buildings operating solely on self-consumption, and isolated networks.

For consumers with fixed-price, fixed-term contracts, new rules mandate that any early termination fees must be clearly stated in the contract before signing and calculated transparently. These measures collectively aim to modernize the energy market and strengthen consumer rights in Romania.