Hidroelectrica's profit plummets in H1 2025 amid drought and increased costs

Business Forum
State-owned hydroelectricity producer Hidroelectrica said its net profit decreased by 41% to RON 1.58 billion (€319.5 million) in H1 2025 versus the same period of 2024, over unfavourable hydrological conditions and a strategic shift towards purchasing electricity from the market to compensate for reduced hydropower generation.

Revenue for the period was RON 4.315 billion (€869.5 million), a 16% decrease compared to the same period last year. This fall was a direct result of a 27% decrease in net electricity production, as severe drought conditions, particularly in Q1 2025, significantly impacted the Danube's flow. 

The average flow of the Danube in Q1 2025 was 4,257 cbm per second, approximately 40% lower than in Q1 2024.

To maintain its supply performance, Hidroelectrica increased its external electricity acquisitions by 62%. This increased reliance on the wholesale electricity market, coupled with a growing share of the supply segment, weighed on the company's margins. The operating margin dropped by 31% to 41%, while the net margin fell by 30% to 37%.

Despite these challenges, the company's Q2 2025 performance showed a recovery, driven by electricity purchases and a partial rebound in production. 

Hidroelectrica said its prudent commercial policy and careful management of its production-purchase mix helped it achieve a gross profit that was slightly above the budget forecast by 1%.

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Business Forum  |  14 August, 2025 at 1:10 PM
Business Forum  |  14 August, 2025 at 10:01 AM