Electricity consumption decreases by 3 per cent in Moldova on March 26; energy minister describes this as important result of efforts of all country's consumers

Electricity consumption on March 26 decreased by 3 per cent compared to the previous day and amounted to 11.4 thousand MWh. Cogeneration power plants covered 26.08 per cent of electricity consumption, renewable energy sources (RES) - 36.93 per cent, while imports accounted for 39.39 per cent.

Energy Minister Dorin Junghietu emphasized that the decrease in electricity consumption was an important result of the efforts of all Moldovan consumers – household, industrial, central and local public authorities.

“Even a 1–3% reduction during peak hours contributes significantly to maintaining the balance between production and consumption, reducing congestion in the grid, and limiting the need to use additional balancing resources. Thank you for this rationalization of consumption,” said Dorin Junghietu.

The official further urged citizens to rationalize their electricity consumption, especially during peak hours.

“During this time interval, the electricity transmission networks face increased load; for this reason, we recommend avoiding the simultaneous use of high‑power household appliances during peak hours – washing machines, electric ovens and boilers. It is also important to schedule consumption outside maximum load intervals, especially in the evening. Likewise, we encourage the efficient use of lighting and the disconnection of unused equipment. Adopting these measures contributes directly to the stable and safe operation of the National Power System and to enhancing energy efficiency nationally,” said Dorin Junghietu.

The joint‑stock company Energocom said that, for today, it had managed to ensure full commercial coverage of the required electricity consumption. This result was achieved following urgent technical coordination, after cross‑border capacity deficiencies had previously been reported, which endangered grid stability during peak hours.

A state of emergency in the energy sector has been declared in Moldova for a period of 60 days starting from March 25, this year, in the context of Russia’s military attacks on the energy infrastructure in southern Ukraine, which have also affected energy infrastructure owned by Moldova and led to the shutdown of the 400 kV Vulcanesti–Isaccea overhead power line.