The launch of construction works on the first power transmission line interconnecting Moldova to the European energy market—with over 20 towers assembled and more than 190 foundations completed—the installation of modern equipment for the production and delivery of thermal energy to improve quality and reduce costs, the organization of tenders, the contracting of companies, and the execution of the first technical rehabilitation project for the first of ten hospitals. These are just a few of the achievements recorded in 2024 as part of some of the most important energy projects in the country.
Ruslan Surugiu, Director of the Consolidated Unit for the Implementation and Monitoring of Energy Projects (UCIPE), presented an overview of the investment activities and projects carried out throughout the year, highlighting:
- The start of construction for the 400 kV Overhead Transmission Line (OHL) on the Vulcănești–Chișinău route: the first project to interconnect the Republic of Moldova to the European electricity grid. The project has achieved progress with approximately 190 foundations and 20 towers assembled, and the construction site spans about 65 km. This follows record-time efforts during the year to complete foundation testing, deliver over 90% of the necessary materials and equipment, and provide land compensation in 25 of the 34 affected localities, with over 80% of compensations already paid.
- Another key achievement involves investments in the thermal energy production and delivery infrastructure in Chișinău: in 2024, 155 Individual Heating Points (PTIs) were installed in around 100 residential blocks and public institutions in the capital. As a result, starting this winter, about 10,000 families now benefit from significantly improved and energy-efficient heating services. Additionally, Termoelectrica S.A. is operating with increased efficiency in thermal and electrical energy production and is achieving annual savings of up to 10 million MDL on electricity consumption—thanks to the modernization of the pumping installation for Boiler No. 2 at the Combined Heat and Power Plant, Source-1.
- The modernization and optimization of internal energy production sources have become an urgent need, said UCIPE Director Ruslan Surugiu. Two essential components of the SACET Project focus on the construction of new efficient power plants with a total electricity capacity of approximately 55 MW (or more) and thermal capacity of at least 43 Gcal/h, as well as conducting a comprehensive feasibility study for the development of Termoelectrica S.A. “We are currently conducting the tender for this critical package, and throughout the year, major efforts have been made to attract experienced and reputable companies to ensure timely and high-quality project delivery.”
- Another strategic direction for strengthening Moldova’s energy security is energy efficiency—especially considering that public buildings currently consume about 50% more energy than necessary. Under the Energy Efficiency Project in the Republic of Moldova, international tenders have been held during the year for the development of technical design documentation for all 10 beneficiary hospitals. Contracts have already been signed for half of them, while the remaining five are in the final stages of the procurement process, with contract signing expected soon.
In parallel, with support from state institutions and development partners, preparations have been made for two additional major projects:
- The “Sustainable Transition to Energy Efficiency in Moldova” (STEEM) Project, under which 46 schools across the country will undergo energy rehabilitation, along with the installation of PTIs in several buildings in the capital.
- The “INSPIRE” Project, which aims to improve the energy efficiency of socially significant public buildings throughout Moldova. According to the feasibility study, around 25 buildings—including district hospitals, student dormitories, and educational institutions—are planned for thermal rehabilitation.
All these projects represent concrete actions taken by the Government of the Republic of Moldova and the Ministry of Energy to ensure the country's energy security through infrastructure development, energy loss reduction, and the construction of new internal energy generation capacities. We are grateful for the support of our partners from the World Bank, the European Union, the European Investment Bank (EIB), the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the French Development Agency (AFD), the Government of Germany and the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development through the German Development Bank (KfW), the Ministry of Education and Research of the Republic of Moldova, the National Center for Sustainable Energy, Termoelectrica S.A., state enterprise Moldelectrica, local public authorities, and all beneficiary institutions.
Energy security is a national priority—a priority we all share together.
Together – for energy!