Moldovagaz Chief: The Tariff Will Definitely Increase, This Is Already Clear to Everyone

The situation with natural gas supplies to Moldova remains unclear. But it is known for sure that we will pay more, but how much more is not yet clear. It is impossible to divulge details about the process of negotiations with Gazprom, so as not to interfere with the course of the discussions. This was stated by Moldovagaz director Vadim Ceban on the air of the program “Spotlight” on Publika TV. On Thursday, he, together with Deputy Prime Ministers Andrei Spinu and Vlad Kulminski, will continue negotiations with representatives of the Russian company in Moscow. According to Ceban, the main problem now is Moldova’s historical debt of $ 720 million. “I cannot tell you specific proposals yet, because we are still working. Let’s wait until we have a price formula, a specific purchase price for a certain period of time. First, we need consultations. The tariff will definitely increase. It is clear to everyone. Accordingly, it is necessary to determine the level of social state support for vulnerable segments of the population.” A couple of days ago, Prime Minister Natalia Gavrilita also stated during the briefing that the purchase price for gas will increase entailing the increased tariffs for end consumers. At the same time, she failed to mention specific numbers. Director of the National Energy Regulatory Agency Octavian Calmic, who also attended the program, noted that as soon as the negotiations are over the institution will analyze all factors before setting the final tariff for citizens. “Historically, the best price comes from a source that produces gas. Of course, Russia is the leader in this regard. Our tariff includes a purchase price for natural gas of $ 147, a tariff for consumers of $ 4.84. If the price is higher, a tariff adjustment will undoubtedly be required, but it is not directly proportional,” he said. The contract between Moldovagaz and Gazprom expired in September and was only extended for a month. The authorities said negotiations with other partners are underway, including Romania, Ukraine and Poland, to find alternative sources of natural gas. Point