Three new energy interconnections will link the Republic of Moldova with Romania and Ukraine
The Republic of Moldova plans to construct new energy interconnection lines with Romania and Ukraine. This initiative aims to enhance its energy independence and facilitate the integration of future renewable energy capacities into the European grid. Energy Minister Dorin Junghietu made the announcement during a recent Partnership for Transatlantic Energy Cooperation (P-TEC) meeting in Athens, attended by officials from the United States and Europe.
According to the minister, the upcoming projects will focus on the Vulcănești - Smârdan, Comrat - Smârdan, and Vulcănești - Artsyz lines. These initiatives aim to expand the regional network and enable the Republic of Moldova to be an active participant in the European energy market.
"Only three years ago, the Republic of Moldova relied almost entirely on a single gas supplier. Today, that chapter is closed. We have shown that determination, cooperation, and a European vision can transform vulnerability into resilience and independence," declared Dorin Junghietu at the event in Athens.
The Ministry of Energy reports that the Republic of Moldova has reached 90% completion of the Vulcănești - Chișinău power line (400 kV), which is expected to be completed by the end of this year. Additionally, the Bălți - Suceava project is scheduled for completion in 2027. Both projects are essential for increasing cross-border exchange capacity and integrating into the European ENTSO-E network.
It is worth mentioning that the European Union is providing a grant of 15.4 million euros for the Vulcănești - Chișinău interconnection project, while the United States is financing the construction of the Strășeni - Gutinaș line (400 kV) with an investment of 130 million dollars.
Regional cooperation and digital transition
The Minister also emphasized the collaboration with Ukraine at the meeting of the Transatlantic Energy Cooperation Partnership. This includes the Bălți - Dnestrovsk Power Plant line (330 kV) being added to the list of Projects of Interest for the Energy Community, a step that will enhance the security of supply for both countries.
Simultaneously, the Republic of Moldova is launching a national smart metering program, supported by the Government of Italy and UNDP. This initiative aims to replace 60,000 old meters by 2027, as part of the transition to a digitalized and consumer-centered energy system.
“Energy is not just an economic sector; it is a guarantee of freedom and a pillar of security. Every interconnection we build makes us stronger, both as countries and as a region,” concluded Junghietu.
