Sustainability and Financial Performance: Exploring the Interconnections Through the Accounting Perspective in Romania

Amid the EU's transition to mandatory sustainability reporting (CSRD), this study explores the relationship between ESG performance and financial results among five major Romanian energy companies.Using a mixed-methods approach, it reveals significant positive correlations between ESG scores, sustainability investments, and financial indicators (ROA, ROE, net profit).The findings underscore the role of accounting in integrating ESG data, enhancing transparency, and supporting strategic decisions.Companies with consistent non-financial reporting and stronger ESG engagement show superior profitability.This research contributes to the understanding of sustainable accounting as a driver of competitiveness in Romania's evolving corporate governance landscape.