DOC // Moldovan Energy Ministry publishes memorandum on construction of ~100 MW gas‑fired power plant

The Energy Ministry has made public the Memorandum of Understanding signed in autumn 2025 with the US companies Small Business Consulting Corporation (SBCC) and Wheeler Machinery Co on the development in Moldova of a natural gas‑fired power plant with a capacity of about 100 MW.

Energy Dorin Junghietu has made statements to this effect, specifying that the document was published with the consent of all signatory parties.

According to the official, the publication of the memorandum shows the partners’ commitment to transparency and to informing citizens about strategic projects in the energy sector of Moldova.

“The new power plant will contribute to diversifying domestic electricity generation sources, enhancing the flexibility of the National Power System and reducing dependence on energy imports during peak consumption periods,” underlined Energy Minister Dorin Junghietu.

The authorities consider that the investment represents an important step in developing energy infrastructure and in increasing Moldova’s own electricity generation capacities, goals assumed in the context of strengthening the country’s energy independence.

The memorandum sets out the cooperation framework between the parties for the assessment and development of the project, which is expected to become one of the strategic investments in the energy sector of Moldova.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed in September 2025 between Moldova’s Energy Ministry, the U.S. company Small Business Consulting Corporation (SBCC) and Wheeler Machinery Co. The document establishes a planning phase of up to 180 days, during which the sides are to draw up a detailed plan regarding the site’s location, connection to grid, gas supply source, environmental aspects, operational model and commercial framework of the project. The goal is for the new power plant to become operational within no more than 12 months after the completion and approval of the plan.

According to the memorandum, the Energy Ministry will facilitate the getting of permits, identifying the land and connecting to the energy infrastructure, while SBCC will coordinate the project’s development, commercial negotiations and fundraising. Wheeler Machinery Co. will supply the power generation technology and equipment based on Caterpillar generators, as well as technical support and staff training. The document is non‑binding in most of its provisions and represents a cooperation framework for assessing feasibility and preparing the investment.