30. Changes in Energy Supply Chain for Romania

The global transportation sector is a linchpin of economic growth, yet its predominant reliance on fossil fuels, as documented by Mwasilu et al. (Renew Sustain Energy Rev 34:501–516, 2014), presents pressing challenges. The Energy Information Agency (EIA) projects a substantial 54% increase in petrol consumption by 2035, compounded by soaring prices. Meanwhile, the adverse environmental effects of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, underscored by Ivascu et al. (Rev Manage Econ Eng 19, 2020), demand sustainable solutions. In response, the burgeoning adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs) is reshaping the transportation sector. This paper explores the repercussions of the expanding EV fleet on Romania's electric grid and scrutinizes solutions articulated in scientific literature, both globally and within the Romanian context. Our research relies on data extracted from international databases and qualitative insights derived from an exhaustive examination of pertinent scientific literature. EVs are defined as vehicles propelled by electric engines, converting battery-stored energy into mechanical motion (Williamson in Energy management strategies for electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. Springer, New York, NY, 2013). EVs offer multiple advantages, including zero GHG emissions during operation, especially when charged with energy from renewable sources, considerably reducing the carbon footprint. Governments worldwide, including the European Union, are incentivizing EV adoption and considering measures like banning diesel engines in major cities, as exemplified by Xue et al. (Sustainability 13:2928, 2021). Consequently, the scientific literature predicts a swift transition from conventional vehicles to EVs. The global market share of EVs may surge from less than 10% to over 40% by 2050, as forecasted by Tan et al. (Renew Sustain Energy Rev 53:720–732, 2016). In summary, this paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the impact of the EV proliferation on Romania's electric grid and assesses potential solutions rooted in an extensive body of scientific literature and data sources. It sheds light on the evolving transportation landscape in Romania, considering the challenges and opportunities posed by the rise of EVs.