Moldova diversifies energy sources, boosting winter readiness
Since the beginning of the year through September, Energocom has procured approximately 413 million cubic metres of natural gas from the European market.
Of this volume, three-quarters were sourced from companies registered in Romania and the Romanian Exchange. Specifically, 61% of the total was acquired from two companies in Romania, 14% from two entities in Austria, 3% each from companies in Switzerland and Ukraine, 1% from a Greek company, and 18% directly from the Romanian Exchange.
The largest portion of this volume—around 329 million cubic metres—was purchased between July and September, with nearly 285 million cubic metres subsequently sold to Moldovagaz for immediate use or to prepare for the upcoming winter season.
The weighted average price for the gas purchased was $404.92 per thousand cubic metres. Funds for these acquisitions came from grants and loans provided last year by the Norwegian Government and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, alongside the company’s own resources.
To facilitate these purchases, Energocom held 42 auction rounds, of which 12 concluded with signed delivery contracts. Approximately 50 million cubic metres acquired from the Romanian Exchange in the third quarter (July to September) were stored in Romania, intended as reserves for emergency situations.
The decision to source gas from European markets reflects Moldova’s strategic shift following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. To ensure energy security, Moldova has diversified its natural gas supply sources, reducing its reliance on Russian gas. This move was driven by the country's vulnerability to price volatility and the geopolitical risks associated with dependence on Russian gas.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
