Straseni-Gutinas line: Pre-feasibility study completed
The Republic of Moldova has made progress in its strategic project "Liberty Line," which involves establishing the third high-voltage electrical interconnection with Romania. The pre-feasibility study for the 400 kV Straseni-Gutinas overhead power line has been completed. The findings of this study were presented to Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu on Thursday, June 18, by Nick Pietrowicz, the Chargé d'Affaires at the United States Embassy in the Republic of Moldova.
The project will be entirely funded by a grant from the United States Government, totalling $ 130 million. This initiative aims to enhance the Republic of Moldova's energy security and facilitate its integration into the European energy market.
“The strategic partnership with the United States is yielding tangible results for the energy security of the Republic of Moldova. The pre-feasibility study for the Liberty Line marks a significant step forward in establishing a new energy connection with the European Union and bolstering the resilience of our electricity system,” stated Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu.
The proposed high-voltage line will be the third electrical interconnection between the Republic of Moldova and the European electricity system via Romania. It follows the Vulcănești-Chișinău and Bălți-Suceava projects. Authorities assert that this investment will enhance electricity import and export capacities, thereby improving supply security and increasing the competitiveness of the energy market.
According to the pre-feasibility study, the 400 kV Straseni-Gutinas power line will span approximately 70 kilometers across the Republic of Moldova, crossing through 25 localities in the districts of Straseni, Nisporeni, Călărași, and Hâncești.
This project is designed to increase the capacity for electricity transfer between the Republic of Moldova and the European energy space, ENTSO-E. It will contribute to diversifying supply sources and reducing vulnerabilities within the national energy system.
Minister of Energy Dorin Junghietu emphasized that modernizing energy infrastructure can lead to broader economic benefits.
“The development of energy infrastructure and economic growth must go hand in hand. Investments in networks and interconnections not only enhance energy security but also create better conditions for attracting investments, generating jobs, and fostering economic development,” the minister declared.
The Ministry of Energy expressed gratitude for the support provided by the United States in modernizing the energy sector and in strengthening the energy independence of the Republic of Moldova.
