Energy price hike hits Chișinău budget: Government’s response
The government states that it will review the written request from the Chișinău City Hall, but emphasizes that "the lack of responsible local budget planning cannot be solely compensated by the state budget."
“The authorities are implementing support measures for citizens and businesses—measures that local authorities have neglected, despite previous electoral promises. Responsible management of resources remains an obligation at all levels of public administration,” said Government spokesperson Daniel Vodă.
According to the mayor of the capital, Ion Ceban, the increase in energy tariffs could burden the Chișinău municipal budget with an additional cost of around 400 million lei (~€20.5 mln). The mayor stated that local authorities would request financial support from the Government to offset the increased costs of public lighting and public transport, estimated at 180 million lei.
It should be noted that, starting January 10, Moldovans are paying more for electricity. Consumers in the central and southern regions of the country now pay 4.1 lei/kWh—75% higher than the previous rate—while those in the northern region pay 4.68 lei/kWh, a rise of about 64%.
As a result of the tariff increases, the Government announced it would provide additional compensation for electricity for both residential consumers and businesses. The energy price increases were caused by the discontinuation of electricity supply from the Cuciurgan Power Plant, as well as the need to diversify supply sources in this context.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
