The Republic of Moldova has taken another step toward strengthening its energy independence. State-owned transmission system operator Moldelectrica has signed a contract for the design, supply of equipment and construction of the 400 kV Balti–Suceava overhead power line, a strategic project that will connect northern Moldova to the electricity systems of Romania and the European Union, bani.md reports.
The contract was awarded to Turkish company SA-RA, which won the international tender. It is valued at €17.5 million, with construction scheduled to be completed within 24 months.
During the same ceremony, Moldova’s Energy Ministry, Moldelectrica and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development signed a grant agreement for the implementation of the Moldova–Romania Electricity Interconnection – Phase II project.
The new 400 kV transmission line will stretch approximately 45 kilometres across Moldova, passing through 12 localities in the districts of Glodeni, Falesti, Balti and Riscani. The project includes the construction of foundations and high-voltage pylons, installation of conductors, insulators and protection systems, and integration of the new infrastructure into Moldelectrica’s transmission network.
Energy Minister Dorin Junghietu said the project would further strengthen Moldova’s energy links with the European Union.
“We are building three transmission lines that will permanently reshape Moldova’s energy map. If Vulcanesti–Chisinau is the Line of Energy Independence and Straseni–Gutinas will be the Line of Freedom, today we are taking another step with the Balti–Suceava project, which we have named the Line of Resilience,” the minister said.
EU Ambassador to Moldova Iwona Piorko said the European Union is contributing a €15.4 million grant to support the project.
“Every new connection to the European energy market means greater security, more opportunities for businesses and reduced vulnerability to external pressure,” she said.
According to the authorities, the Balti–Suceava transmission line will increase cross-border electricity exchange capacity, improve the reliability of Moldova’s national power system and reduce the country’s dependence on a limited number of electricity sources and supply routes.
The Moldova–Romania Electricity Interconnection – Phase II project is financed by the EBRD, the European Investment Bank and the EU’s Neighbourhood Investment Platform. The total investment amounts to approximately €77 million, including a €15.4 million grant provided by the European Union.