EU funds for energy: Moldova receives first tranche of €400 million loan
The Republic of Moldova is enhancing its energy security by securing a loan from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. By the end of July, the first 170 million euros of a total loan amounting to 400 million euros will be available. Eugeniu Buzatu, the interim director of Energocom, discussed on the "Spațiul Public" show on Radio Moldova how these funds will be utilized.
According to Buzatu, the remaining two tranches of 80 million euros and 50 million euros will be accessed later. The funds will be used to purchase natural gas and electricity.
"In no case will the money be transferred to Energocom's accounts. We will not even see this money in the early stages. We will recover it from consumers or from those to whom we deliver the gas, and then we will reimburse it to the EBRD."
Over 47 percent of the gas needs for the winter season of 2025-2026 have already been purchased. However, to fully cover the cold season, an additional five million MWh is needed, which is equivalent to almost 470 million cubic meters. This will require approximately 200 million euros. Regarding storage, Buzatu explained that it is no longer necessary to store gas in Ukraine or Romania since it is being purchased with timely delivery. The exception is the security stocks, which remain essential in emergencies.
"In Romania, we have 22.8 million cubic meters, and in Ukraine, we also have 22.8 million cubic meters. These are security stocks that can only be accessed based on a CSE provision in the event of a gas interruption. We need to ensure a continuity of delivery over ten days. In this regard, Energocom will also be obligated to purchase an additional 2.9 million cubic meters to reach a total of 50 million cubic meters."
The authorities are preparing tenders for the development of photovoltaic and wind parks, along with battery energy storage systems, as part of the Plan of Measures for the winter of 2025-2026. This plan includes over 40 concrete actions, ranging from the completion of the Vulcănești-Chișinău power line to energy efficiency campaigns. The primary objective remains ensuring the continuity of electricity and gas supply in any scenario.
