Moldelectrica CEO: Moldova Has Never Had a Fully Independent Power Grid

Corina Popescu, Chair of the Board of Directors at Moldelectrica, stated that Moldova is undergoing a major transformation of its energy sector, seeking to break free from its historical dependence on the East and build an independent power system. According to her, the Republic of Moldova has never had a fully independent energy system, reports bani.md, citing focus-energetic.ro. “Moldova is trying to build its own independent energy sector. As an energy sector, they have never been independent. They have always depended either on Moscow or on Kyiv, and today, in the current geopolitical situation, they too have realized how important this energy sector is and how important it is to have an energy system that is under your control, rather than under the control of others,” said Corina Popescu. The situation has become seriously complicated following the reduction in Russian natural gas supplies, which has had a direct impact on the operation of the Cuciurgan power station – the country’s main source of electricity. Whereas this station previously covered up to 80% of domestic consumption, today it is operating with significant restrictions. This, in turn, has forced the Moldovan authorities to accelerate the process of diversifying energy sources. In these circumstances, the interconnection with Romania’s power grid becomes critically important. At present, there is only one operational interconnection line – at Vulcanesti. However, other projects are being implemented in parallel. The 400 kV Suceava-Balti power line is at the tender stage, whilst a third interconnection, Straseni-Gutinas, will be funded with support from the United States of America. Corina Popescu emphasized that, alongside infrastructure development, Moldova is striving to bring its energy market into line with European standards. In particular, this involves the introduction of market-based electricity trading mechanisms, such as the day-ahead market (DAM) and the intraday market (IDM). The ultimate goal is full integration into the pan-European ENTSO-E network. The Chair of the Board of Directors of Moldelectrica also noted that Romania plays a key role in this process. The neighboring country provides Moldova not only with electricity, but also with technical support and the necessary expertise. It is crucial to understand, however, that the energy supplied is not free: it is paid for at market prices, even in the event of emergencies. Despite certain successes and noticeable progress, the energy sector of the Republic of Moldova remains vulnerable, and the transformation process itself is complex and time-consuming. “The old model can no longer be sustained. Moldova must build its own energy system, which will be entirely under its control,” concluded Corina Popescu.