At the dawn of 2025, Moldova finds itself grappling with a significant energy crisis following the cessation of Russian gas supplies. Starting January 1, Moldova no longer receives any Russian gas, compelling the government to declare a state of emergency.
This drastic turn of events primarily affects the Cuciurgan power plant located in the breakaway region of Transnistria, which has historically relied on Russian gas to meet the country's electricity needs. To compound the issue, Moldova is also entangled in disputes with Gazprom over unpaid debts of $700 million, which have complicated any potential for securing gas via alternative routes.
According to Energy Minister Sebastian Burduja, "Russia has used energy as a weapon of blackmail for decades, always threatening to 'turn off the tap.' And it continues to do so. Those dreaming of 'cheap' Russian gas should keep in mind: freedom has no price. Without energy independence, there can be no freedom or security for any nation.”
The immediate impact of losing access to Russian gas is severe, with Moldova facing a deficit of around 600 megawatts (MW) of electricity to satisfy its domestic consumption. The country's local production capabilities only provide about 300 MW, necessitating urgent external support.
Romania has stepped up to assist its eastern neighbor during this crisis. Burduja outlined several agreements, stating, "Nuclearelectrica has signed a contract to deliver 100 MW consistently across the Prut River to Moldova. We're also negotiating with OMV Petrom for 100 MW from the Brazi gas power plant, along with talks with Complexul Energetic Oltenia for another 100-200 MW.”
Electricity exports from Romania to Moldova have the potential to reach significant levels, bolstered by enhanced cross-border capacity recently confirmed by ENTSO-E, which allows for up to 600 MW of electricity to be delivered from Romania. This arrangement is structured to help bridge the gap created by the sudden halt of Russian gas supplies.
On top of the existing contracts, Romania's Energy Ministry has ensured sufficient quantities of natural gas for their side of the border, stating there are commercial and emergency reserves exceeding 70 million cubic meters in storage facilities. The capacity for gas exports through the Iasi-Ungheni interconnector stands at 6.1 million cubic meters per day, meeting Moldova's winter demands.
Burduja emphasized, "Our energy exports to Moldova are conducted on commercial bases and only within the scope of available volumes after covering our own needs. We have a moral obligation to assist our brothers across the Prut with everything possible. This message from Romania is clear: brothers will always be brothers!"
Domestic politics are also at play, as the Moldovan government faces internal pressure to secure stable energy supplies amid rising public discontent. The government spokesperson, Daniel Vodă, assured the residents on the right bank of the Dniester River, "Moldova has begun the new year with power and gas for all citizens. The energy consumption has been fully met thanks to coordinated efforts and diverse sources, including imports from Romania.”
Conversely, those residing on the left bank of the Dniester, the Transnistrian region, are facing dire circumstances after gas and heat supplies were reportedly cut off. Vodă highlighted, "The Transnistrian region is going through a difficult situation. Russian blackmail must stop.”
Looking toward the future, discussions continue about how Moldova can safeguard its energy independence moving forward. The reliance on Russian gas has been highlighted as not only an economic strategy but also as part of wider geopolitical maneuvers within the region. Moldova must navigate this complex web of energy dependencies and external pressures as it seeks stability.
Overall, the first days of 2025 have marked the beginning of what is expected to be a challenging year for Moldova. The country must balance immediate energy needs with the long-term goal of achieving energy independence and resilience against external pressures, particularly from Russia.