Expert: Renewable energy is no longer a goal, but the only option
Renewable energy is the only viable solution for Moldova, as vulnerabilities in its energy system and the lack of fossil fuels render the country dependent on imports, says energy expert Marcela Lefter.
“We do not have fossil fuel sources—neither does our country, nor does Europe, which is also lacking in such resources. We possess no coal, gas, or oil, and under these conditions, renewable energy remains our only solution. For us, this is not just a medium-term goal; it is the only pathway through which we can generate electricity,” stated Lefter during the “Banii” program on Moldova 1.
She explained that the issues in the energy sector are structural and stem from how the energy system was developed.
“Our vulnerabilities are not only real; they are longstanding, arising from the way the energy system was constructed. Our primary vulnerability is the lack of interconnection lines. We need those strategic projects that are currently underway and need to be developed,” the expert said.
Currently, reliance on energy imports remains high, exposing the country to external risks and price volatility. In this context, enhancing domestic energy production is crucial to reducing these vulnerabilities.
While the renewable energy sector has seen significant growth—reaching approximately 1 billion kilowatt-hours annually—Lefter emphasizes the need for consistent investment and long-term policy commitment.
“The energy transition today represents our independence, and that has a cost. We must become accustomed to this reality because we have already been paying a price. Our energy bills have been proportionally higher than the population's incomes. Normally, we have been paying a subsidized price, which cannot be sustained in a modern market economy,” Lefter explained.
She also argued that increasing production capacity could lead to lower prices in the long run.
“The more electricity generation we have—as with any other market—we will see lower purchase prices. Although we’re optimistic about this potential, it’s important to weigh it against the costs of investment,” she added.
We remind you that the renewable energy sector in the Republic of Moldova has experienced rapid expansion in recent years. Installed capacity grew from 77 megawatts in 2020 to nearly 980 megawatts by the end of last year. As a result, green energy production has increased nearly 13-fold in just five years, and by 2025, renewable sources are expected to cover approximately a quarter of the country’s final electricity consumption.
