ROPEPCA needed to reverse these damaging regulations by mobilizing political and business stakeholders to highlight the negative economic impact of price caps.
Solution:
Legislative Pressure – Developed amendments and position papers to challenge OUG 114. – Engaged MPs, Government officials, and ANRE (Energy Regulator) in one-on-one discussions.
Public Awareness & Advocacy – Launched a media campaign exposing the negative effects of price capping. – Used industry data to demonstrate the damage to the Romanian gas market.
Winning the Debate – Participated in parliamentary debates and successfully lobbied for change. – In 2019, with a new government in place, the 2% tax was eliminated and price caps were lifted.
Results:
Price caps removed, restoring competition in the gas market.
2% tax eliminated, preventing billions in losses for the industry.
Secured a regulatory environment that encourages investment in Romanian energy.
Impact:
This was a textbook case of how strategic public affairs and communication can drive regulatory change and protect industries from damaging policies.
Client : Romanian Petroleum Exploration and Production Companies Association (ROPEPCA)
Year : 2018-2019
Challenge: A new government ordinance (OUG 114/2018) forced gas producers to cap regulated prices at 68 lei/MWh until 2022 while also imposing a 2% turnover tax on companies in the sector. This move threatened investments, reduced competition, and could have driven up long-term gas prices for consumers.