ANRE decision: Large non-household consumers to purchase natural gas only at negotiated prices starting 1 April

The National Energy Regulatory Agency (ANRE) has approved the schedule for the gradual liberalization of the natural gas market. The decision establishes the phased transition of certain categories of consumers to market-priced natural gas supply, gradually eliminating the regulated regime for large and medium non-household consumers.

According to the ANRE decision, starting from April 1, 2026, the public service obligation will no longer apply to large non-household consumers, who consume over 100,000 cubic meters annually, and they will have to purchase natural gas only at negotiated prices.

Meanwhile, medium non-household consumers, who consume between 10,000 and 100,000 cubic meters annually, will move to the free market starting from April 1, 2027.

At the same time, household consumers, small non-household consumers, and institutions and enterprises providing essential social services (such as healthcare, essential and emergency social assistance, security, education, or public administration) will continue to benefit from regulated-price supply but will have the option to opt for the free market.

According to ANRE, with the implementation of the liberalization schedule, consumers will have access to competitive prices, the ability to choose suppliers based on commercial terms and service quality, and benefit from more efficient services.

"The liberalization of the natural gas market is a necessary measure for creating a competitive and transparent energy sector. The Republic of Moldova is entirely dependent on natural gas imports, and diversifying sources and introducing competitive mechanisms reduce monopoly risks, contribute to supply stability, and align the national market with European Union standards. Moreover, liberalization provides a premise for integration into the regional and European energy market," ANRE also notes.