Vulcănești–Chișinău power line: Nearly 75% of pylons installed
Progress is clearly visible on the construction sites of the 400 kV Vulcănești-Chișinău overhead power line (OPL). According to the Ministry of Energy, over 93% of the foundations for the pillars were already completed, with significant advancements observed both in the southern and central sections of the project.
Teams of workers have made significant progress in the southern region near the Vulcănești Electric Station. Additionally, work is already underway in the central part, specifically in the Ialoveni district, just a few kilometers from the Chișinău Electric Station.
Currently, approximately 75% of the pylons have been assembled, and over 60% have already been installed. More than 25 kilometers of conductors have also been laid along the route of the line.
Furthermore, considerable advancements are being made at the electrical substations that will support the network's operation. At the Chișinău Electric Station, all four single-phase units of the power autotransformer have been transported, and their installation is set to begin soon, according to representatives from the Ministry of Energy.
Meanwhile, at the Vulcănești Electric Station, work continues on the concrete foundations for the equipment. A significant portion of the foundations has already been produced, tested, and is currently being delivered.
Authorities said that some support insulators are at the construction site, and the metal structures will be delivered shortly.
*Source: Ministry of Energy
The Vulcănești–Chișinău power line is a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing the energy security of the Republic of Moldova and improving its connectivity to European electricity networks.
Construction of the Vulcănești-Chișinău overhead line (OHL) began in April 2024. This project is part of the Power System Development Project, which the World Bank Group finances. The total cost of the project is 61 million euros, with approximately 27 million euros allocated for the construction of the power line itself.
The 400 kV overhead power line will stretch 157 kilometers in length, featuring over 500 pylons and 1,500 kilometers of conductors. It will create a vital connection between the southern and central regions of Moldova, passing through eight districts and 35 localities.
Depending on the power system's operating conditions, the line is expected to support a transmission capacity of up to 630 MVA. This capacity could meet 50% of the energy consumption during peak demand periods.
The project is scheduled for completion in December 2025.
