Moldova introduces new electricity tariffs based on consumption hours
For the first time, both household and non-household consumers in the Republic of Moldova will be able to pay electricity tariffs depending on their consumption hours.
Therefore, from 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM, when demand is lower, electricity will be cheaper. However, differentiated tariffs will only be available to businesses and household consumers who have smart meters that record consumption in hourly intervals.
Starting January 20, residential consumers in the central and southern regions, served by Premier Energy, will pay 4.32 lei per kWh between 7:00 AM and 11:00 PM, and 3.31 lei per kWh between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM. Residential consumers in the northern region, served by FEE Nord, will be charged 4.89 lei per kWh during the day and 3.90 lei per kWh at night.
Differentiated tariffs will primarily benefit businesses, as most are equipped with smart meters, according to the Ministry of Energy’s Secretary of State. With the introduction of these tariffs, industrial consumers will be able to schedule their activities to take advantage of the lower prices, Borosan added.
“We have initially urged reduced consumption during peak hours. Now, ANRE is proposing for approval differentiated day and night rates. Where demand is lowest—at night, when energy is cheapest on the market and there is enough capacity—cheaper rates are being proposed,” he said.
Looking at the structure of electricity consumption in our country, over half—about 65-66%—is non-residential. The majority are equipped with smart meters that allow for hourly measurement. Therefore, businesses will first benefit, as they can shift part of their economic activity to off-peak hours to take advantage of lower prices.
What does this change mean for consumers?
According to ANRE, the new differentiated rates give consumers with smart meters the opportunity to lower their electricity bills by benefiting from more favorable tariffs during off-peak hours, when the electricity grid is under less strain. The implementation of this system is a right, not an obligation, the Agency clarified.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
