The government is enhancing its ability to address risks in the energy sector by developing a robust legal framework for crisis prevention and management. In this context, the Cabinet of Ministers approved the Regulation on Emergency Situations in the Electricity Sector and the accompanying Action Plan, as reported by Moldpres, citing the government’s public relations department.
Comprehensive Crisis Scenarios and Response Measures
The Action Plan outlines 31 crisis scenarios and corresponding measures to prevent or mitigate the impact of potential emergencies in the electricity sector. It provides detailed proactive and reactive steps for fuel shortages, electricity market disruptions, malicious attacks, and extreme weather events.
In one scenario involving a widespread fuel supply deficit, power producers will maximize existing production capacities and mobilize all available generating units. The transmission system operator would request support from neighboring countries’ operators under bilateral agreements. Priority consumers, including medical institutions, kindergartens, and schools, would be safeguarded to ensure essential social services remain uninterrupted.
Another scenario addresses grid overload due to the use of electric devices for heating. In this case, authorities would redistribute network loads, reinforce low-voltage grids, and implement demand management programs.
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If transmission infrastructure sustains damage, authorities will rapidly restore power lines and reallocate energy flows within interconnected grids, leveraging available capacities through the European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity (ENTSO-E).
Regional Cooperation and Market Integration
The plan emphasizes the importance of regional cooperation and deeper integration into the European energy market. Coordinated measures with neighboring countries will enhance crisis prevention and management capabilities.
Crisis Management Entities
The crisis management will oversee the Ministry of Energy, the National Energy Regulatory Agency, electricity transmission and distribution operators, and the Emergency Situations Commission.
Current Vulnerabilities in Moldova’s Energy Sector
Despite significant advancements in the energy sector—such as constructing the Iasi-Chisinau gas pipeline, synchronizing the electricity grid with ENTSO-E, and launching interconnection projects with Romania—Moldova remains vulnerable. Domestic generation covers only 23% of right-bank electricity needs, while 70% of consumption depends on the Kuchurgan Power Plant (MGRES). Furthermore, ENTSO-E currently provides an import capacity of only 315 MW, which fails to meet overall demand.
The 400 kV Vulcanesti-Chisinau and Balti-Suceava power line projects will improve the situation. But power lines will be completed by the end of 2025.