Moldova boosts energy security with renewables
Minister of Energy, Dorin Junghietu, states that market developments do not indicate a need to adjust electricity and natural gas tariffs.
Furthermore, he explained that Moldova is strengthening its energy security by diversifying sources and implementing structural reforms.
Considering the market's evolution and Energocom's electricity purchase prices from the exchange and bilateral contracts, there is no current indication of a need to adjust tariffs. The National Energy Regulatory Agency (ANRE) should provide clarity on the source and cost of our energy purchases. To date, Moldova has procured 37% of its electricity from the OPCOM exchange (the Romanian exchange), 36% from bilateral contracts, 15% from renewable resources within Moldova, and 12% from the thermal power plants (CETs) in Chișinău and Bălți.
Junghietu assured that all stakeholders are making maximum efforts to complete the 158-kilometer Vulcănești – Chișinău high-voltage power line project.
A nation’s safety and energy security depend on diversity. Diversifying Moldova’s electricity sources is crucial. The interconnector, a mandate objective, will be completed by year-end. We’ve held numerous meetings with contractors and established all critical project targets.
In the latter half of March, we saw an increase in renewable electricity production, reaching 27% at one point. This energy strengthens Moldova’s energy system security. Our next step is to develop interconnection projects to integrate this energy into the national energy grid.
The upcoming gas law, to be adopted by Parliament, introduces new provisions. We are committed to implementing the Third Energy Package, which entails separating transmission, distribution, and supply activities—a process known as 'Unbundling,' initiated in 2004. Currently, Moldovagaz, along with its majority shareholder, must decide whether to retain the supply license or transfer custody of the transmission networks.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
