Energy independence: Moldova deploys first utility-scale battery storage
Moldova has marked a historic milestone in its energy sector by deploying its first 25-megawatt (MW) battery energy storage system (BESS). This initiative represents a critical step toward stabilizing the national grid and reducing reliance on external energy sources.
The Ministry of Energy aims to scale this capacity to approximately 200 MW by the end of the year. These privately managed systems will store surplus electricity generated by wind and solar plants during the day for later use.
The stored energy will be utilized to balance the grid and manage peak demand during morning and evening hours. According to Moldelectrica, the national TSO, consumption peaks in Moldova can reach up to 1,000 MW.
These storage units are highly effective for short-term balancing, typically between two and six hours. Their deployment ensures grid stability during periods of high pressure and fluctuating renewable output.
The current stored capacity is already integrated into the national energy balance. This development aligns with Moldova’s broader strategy to bolster its energy security through modern infrastructure.
In January, the government launched a second tender for 170 MW of wind power projects. These new contracts include a mandatory 25% storage capacity requirement for every megawatt of installed renewable energy.
The initial tender for renewable projects attracted approximately €200 million (approx. 3.9 billion MDL) in investment. These projects are expected to create roughly 400 new jobs in the green energy sector.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
