By Order of the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development no. 133, a series of adjustments are introduced to make access to financing more flexible for renewable energy projects intended for self-consumption.
What does it stipulate?
The main change relaxes fiscal eligibility conditions. Companies with debts to the state budget or local budgets can apply for financing, provided they present a debt rescheduling plan approved by the competent authorities. Previously, any outstanding tax debt led to the automatic rejection of the application. This measure opens access to funds for a larger number of operators in the agri-food sector.
The total budget of the scheme, amounting to 500 million euros, becomes more flexible. Although the indicative allocation of 200 million euros for projects over 1 MW and 300 million euros for projects up to 1 MW is maintained, the scheme administrator (AFIR) now has the possibility to reallocate funds between the two categories. The reallocation decision will be based on the interest shown by applicants in previous sessions, allowing for better adaptation to real market demand.
Essential procedural clarifications are also introduced. The “financing application” is officially defined as the electronic form submitted online on the AFIR website. Furthermore, the obligation to designate a “project implementation manager” by notarized power of attorney is established, a person who will represent the company in the contractual relationship with the agency. It is reiterated that state aid has a stimulating effect only if the financing application is submitted before the start of any works on the project.
To whom does it apply?
The changes target all enterprises in the agricultural sector and food industry that intend to apply for grants for the installation of electricity production capacities from renewable sources (wind or solar) for self-consumption. Beneficiary categories include, but are not limited to:
- Agricultural producers (crop farms, livestock farms);
- Agricultural product processors (dairy factories, milling and bakery, slaughterhouses, canning factories);
- Agricultural organizations and cooperatives that wish to reduce their energy dependence and operational costs.
What do you need to do?
- Check your fiscal situation and, if there are any debts, obtain a rescheduling plan approved by the authorities before submitting the financing application.
- Ensure you submit the financing application online through the AFIR platform before starting any work or signing any firm contract for equipment.
- Officially designate, by notarized power of attorney, a project implementation manager who will manage the relationship with AFIR, according to the new definitions.
- Prepare your business plan and cash flow, taking into account the phased payment mechanism, based on pre-financing and reimbursement requests.
Source: Official Gazette, Part I, no. 327 of April 24, 2026.
Note: This material is strictly for informational purposes and does not constitute legal, fiscal, or business advice. As the interpretation and application of legal provisions may vary significantly depending on the specific circumstances of each entity, we recommend seeking specialized legal assistance before adopting any operational decisions based on these changes.