Moldova faces peak-hour power blackouts after Russian strikes
Moldova faces a potential electricity deficit of up to 25% during peak hours on Friday, 27 March, state energy trader Energocom has warned. The shortfall follows Russian drone strikes that severed a critical cross-border interconnection with Romania.
The deficit is estimated at 200–280 MWh per hour between 18:00 and 22:00. Authorities warned that temporary rolling blackouts may be necessary to maintain grid stability if consumption is not immediately reduced.
Russian strikes trigger emergency
The crisis stems from a 23 March Russian drone attack on energy infrastructure in southern Ukraine. The strikes damaged high-voltage lines on the Vulcanesti-Isaccea route, a vital corridor for Moldovan electricity imports.
Energy Minister Dorin Junghietu stated that Ukrainian teams from Ukrenergo are currently repairing the lines. However, the restoration process is expected to take at least one week. Moldova remains under a 60-day energy state of emergency declared on 25 March.
Call for urgent rationing
The National Crisis Management Center (CNMC) has urged all consumers, including public institutions and businesses, to limit power use during morning and evening peaks. Suggested measures include turning off decorative lighting and avoiding the use of elevators or high-consumption appliances.
"We urge citizens to use electricity rationally to maintain the balance of the electro-energetic system," Energocom stated. While critical infrastructure will be prioritised, non-essential services face potential disconnections if the deficit worsens.
Regional coordination challenges
Energocom noted that cross-border capacity allocation depends on complex coordination between operators in Romania, Ukraine, Hungary, Slovakia, and Poland.
The current technical limitations on the Romanian border have left the Moldovan grid vulnerable during periods of maximum demand. Residents have been advised to ensure alternative lighting sources and keep mobile devices charged in anticipation of localized outages.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
