Chisinau heat consumption surges 20% in January amid sub-zero temperatures
Chisinau district heating provider, Termoelectrica, reported a 20% average increase in thermal energy consumption for January 2026. The surge is attributed to significantly lower outdoor temperatures compared to the previous month.
The company issued these clarifications following public concerns regarding higher heating bills. Data shows January 2026 was considerably colder than December 2025 (by 2.4°C) and January 2025 (by 3.1°C), necessitating higher supply temperatures to maintain residential comfort.
Data-driven billing and tariffs
Despite the higher bills, the utility tariff remains unchanged at €128 (approx. 2,510 MDL) per Gcal, excluding VAT. This rate has been in effect since January 10, 2025, as approved by the National Agency for Energy Regulation (ANRE).
Termoelectrica monitors weather forecasts daily, calibrating the heat supply twice every 24 hours. This strategy aims to ensure thermal comfort while preventing excessive consumption that would further impact consumer costs.
Infrastructure and heat loss factors
Consumption is measured via modern electronic meters installed at each building's connection point. These devices track hourly and daily data, which building administrators can access to audit real-time usage.
The provider emphasized that costs vary significantly between buildings based on their technical condition. Major factors include poor basement insulation, damaged exterior walls, and heat loss through unsealed doors or windows in common areas.
System tampering concerns
Efficiency is also compromised by unauthorized modifications to internal heating systems. Common issues include extending radiators to balconies, illegal connections, and connecting underfloor heating to the building’s central risers.
Termoelectrica reiterates that January’s bill increases are a direct result of increased energy volume required by the cold climate, not a change in pricing policy.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
