- Romania pledges support to Moldova amid risks of Russian gas supply disruptions, especially in Transnistria.
- Emergency measures include increasing electricity import capacity and securing gas from storage for Moldova.
- Romania’s cooperation with Moldova strengthens energy security and offers a model for regional partnerships in Eastern Europe.
Romania has pledged to help Moldova secure its energy supply this winter as it faces potential disruptions to Russian gas deliveries. Moldova declared a state of emergency in the energy sector on December 16 amid rising concerns about gas shortages, particularly in the separatist region of Transnistria.
Transnistria, on the left bank of the Dniester River, depends on Russian gas supplied through Ukraine under a contract between Gazprom and Moldovagaz. This contract expires at the end of 2024, raising fears of gas cuts. If the supply cuts off, Transnistria’s thermal power plant, which provides electricity to both Transnistria and Moldova, could face shutdown.
Romanian Minister of Energy Sebastian Burduja said Romania communicates constantly with Moldova to ensure energy stability. He expressed confidence that Romania could assist, citing previous successful collaborations between the two countries.
Romania has announced several measures to support Moldova’s energy needs. The country is reviewing options to withdraw gas from storage if supply cuts to Transnistria occur. Additionally, Romania will increase its electricity import capacity from 315 MW to 395 MW this week. Romania’s Transgaz and Moldova’s VestMoldTransGaz also cooperate to stabilise the energy supply during crises.
Further discussions aim to secure additional electricity supplies. Romania’s energy producers, Nuclearelectrica and Hidroelectrica, work with Moldova’s Energocom to ensure a stable power flow.
Despite Transnistria’s challenges, Moldova has secured enough gas for the winter. On December 13, Moldovagaz confirmed it finalised a contract for 748 million cubic meters of gas, covering Moldova’s needs from October 2024 to March 2025. The gas was purchased at an average price of €47.88/MWh. Romania’s Commodities Exchange supplied most of the gas (700 million cubic meters), while Energocom provided the remaining 48 million cubic meters.
Romania’s role in Moldova’s energy security is critical as it reduces its dependency on Russian gas. Since the 2022 supply crisis, Moldova has turned to European neighbours for its energy needs. Romania has been central to this diversification, offering gas and electricity support.
While Moldova has secured its gas supplies, Transnistria remains vulnerable. The region requires 2.1 billion cubic meters of gas annually, compared to Moldova’s 1.2 billion. If Russian gas deliveries stop, significant economic disruptions could follow. Transnistria’s thermal power plant could struggle to maintain operations, worsening Moldova’s energy shortages.
Romania’s emergency measures aim to address the potential energy deficit, which could reach 600 MW if Transnistria’s thermal plant faces problems. In cooperation with European partners, Romania works to mitigate the impact of any disruptions.
Romania’s proactive approach highlights the importance of regional cooperation to ensure energy security. By working closely with Moldova, Romania helps strengthen the country’s energy resilience. This collaboration could serve as a model for other nations in Eastern Europe that face similar energy supply challenges.
In conclusion, Romania’s support for Moldova’s energy needs this winter proves vital. With gas supply uncertainties looming, Romania’s emergency measures provide a buffer to help Moldova navigate this challenging period. The cooperation between the two nations demonstrates the power of regional partnerships in addressing energy crises.