‘I was the first to raise the flag’: the builders of the Vulcănești–Chișinău power line
The completion of the construction of the pylons for the Vulcănești - Chișinău Overhead Electric Line represents more than just infrastructure; it symbolizes the dedication of individuals who chose to get involved. This includes the teams in the field, the partner institutions, and, most importantly, the workers who meticulously assembled the entire structure like a puzzle, regardless of weather conditions.
The construction of the Vulcănești - Chișinău Overhead Power Line was carried out daily, regardless of weather conditions, recalls engineer Ivan Mereuță.
Today, the challenges of strong winds, difficult terrain, and long hours on the construction site have become part of a success story.
"There were days when temperatures dropped to minus 5 or minus 10 degrees Celsius. We faced rainy, muddy conditions, making access quite challenging. We had to involve third parties with specialized equipment to reach the locations where the pylons were being assembled and installed. Despite the cold, rain, and wind, we managed to push through, and I am proud of the team.
Our usual workday starts at 07:00. The team prepares the necessary tools and project plans before heading to the designated site. Certain team members are responsible for specific stages of the work. The raw materials for the pylons are delivered and unloaded at the terminal. After that, five or six crew members work together to manage different sections of the pylon. We have climbers who work at heights, and others who use a truck crane to assemble the metal structures, piecing them together like a Lego set," said Ivan Mereuță.
Today, teams of workers proudly look at the power line stretching across the plains and through eight districts of the country. Each pylon and every kilometer of cabling reflects their hard work.
Cristian Pilipeț from the village of Ilenuța in the Fălești district, is also proud to be part of this significant energy infrastructure project. As a tower worker tasked with installing pylons, he acknowledges the risks involved.
"The highest pylon I climbed was 52 meters tall. Before ascending a pylon, I make sure to equip myself properly. You must be extremely careful; one wrong step could cost you your life. However, there’s a sense of freedom and responsibility that comes with it. I was the first to raise the flag on the pylon, and I take immense pride in representing my country. I have considerable experience even abroad, but I believe the best work is done at home. I am excited that such projects are taking place in our country, providing new job opportunities. We’ve faced much tougher conditions on the construction site in the past. There are many challenging spots, and access can be difficult, but as a team, we come together to find solutions," Cristian Pilipeț stated.
Another worker from the Fălești district, Marius Ivanov, emphasizes how the project provides young people with the opportunity to work locally and develop their skills. For him, contributing to such a valuable project for the Republic of Moldova is a matter of pride.
"I am an electrician from the Vulcanesti region. I have traveled almost to Chișinău and demonstrated that we can take on tougher, more complex tasks. I believe the most challenging aspect is erecting the pylons," Marius Ivanov noted.
The Vulcănești-Chișinău Power Line stands as the most crucial energy project in the Republic of Moldova. It spans a total length of 157 kilometers and crosses 35 localities across eight districts. Currently, the construction and installation work for the Vulcănești-Chișinău Overhead Power Line is around 99% complete, with the final pylon installation and the last kilometer of conductor being laid.
We remind you that the Vulcănești-Chișinău Overhead Power Line will ensure a reliable and sustainable connection to the European network, enhancing the Republic of Moldova's energy independence and reducing the risk of electricity supply interruptions.
This project is financed by the World Bank through the Power System Development Project, with a total budget of 61 million euros; approximately 27 million euros have been allocated for the construction of this line.
