Chisinau hospitals brace for power outages
Amidst growing concerns over energy supply, Chisinau's hospitals are bracing for potential widespread power outages.
To mitigate the impact of such disruptions, engineers have initiated inspections of emergency generators, ensuring a swift response in the event of power failures.
At the Municipal Clinical Hospital "Gheorghe Paladi," regular monthly inspections are conducted on six generators, capable of powering all hospital buildings during extended power outages. As explained by engineer Pavel Coșcodana, "In the event of a power outage, the generators automatically switch to gas cylinders, ensuring a continuous power supply. Additional cylinders can be deployed as needed to maintain operations."
Hospital officials assert that these generators can operate autonomously for up to 10 hours, providing ample time for refueling and maintenance. "Should the power supply be interrupted, our generators activate within five seconds and can operate continuously for approximately 10 hours. This allows us time to refuel, maintain, and reorganize operations. Routine generator inspections are conducted monthly," explained department head Artur Școlinic.
"We are fully equipped with backup generators to ensure uninterrupted power supply. We are well-prepared for any potential power outages," stated Vasile Guzun, Director of the Municipal Clinical Hospital "Gheorghe Paladi."
Similar preparations are underway at the Municipal Clinical Hospital "Sfânta Treime." The hospital's three high-capacity generators are fueled and ready to operate. "More than 50% of the generators are fueled for emergencies. During previous power outages, we were able to maintain operations. Our fuel tanks can sustain operations for up to 24 hours, but this may vary depending on consumption," said engineer Iurie Lupu.
Hospital administration confirms that the institution is 95% prepared for an energy crisis. The generators will prioritize critical departments, including intensive care units, oxygen stations, diagnostic laboratories, and operating rooms. "The hospital has two connected intensive care units, two oxygen stations, the functional diagnostics department, a laboratory, and operating rooms, all of which will be powered by the generators," explained engineer Mihail Iurcu.
It's important to note that Moldova could face significant power outages if the Cuciurgan Power Plant in the Transnistrian region experiences gas shortages at the end of this year, when the current Russian gas transit contract through Ukraine expires.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
