Moldova's energy system enters stage of modernization, optimization; 500,000 smart meters to be set by 2030

Moldova is taking a major step towards modernizing and optimizing its energy sector. Over 500,000 smart meters will be set by the year 2030, as part of the Digital Transformation Programme for the Energy Sector for 2026–2030, approved by the government in last October. The programme's implementation was today discussed at the Ministry of Energy, in the presence of representatives of public authorities, system operators, regulatory institutions, companies in the field, development partners and the business environment.

The programme sets an ambitious vision for a digitized, consumer-oriented energy system. Key goals include:

• developing an intelligent and interoperable digital infrastructure, including the implementation of a unique identification system for each consumption point;

• creating the National Energy Management Platform, which will collect and analyze data regarding energy production and consumption;

• installing 500,000 smart meters by 2030;

• strengthening cybersecurity with modern threat detection and response mechanisms;

• integrating 600 MW of renewable energy and reducing peak hour consumption by at least 20 per cent through demand management digitalization;

• supporting the transition to green energy and decarbonization through accessible digital solutions.

According to the Ministry of Energy, the implementation of the programme will enhance the protection of critical energy infrastructure through advanced cybersecurity measures and energy losses and related emissions will be significantly reduced—one of the most important transformations for energy security and sector efficiency.

State Secretary Cristina Pereteatcu emphasized the crucial importance of digitalization for achieving national energy objectives:

“Technology, economy, and sustainability unite through energy digitalization. Without a digitized energy system, neither the National Energy and Climate Plan nor the Green Pact can be implemented and the goals in these documents cannot be achieved.”

Representatives from the United Nations Development Programme confirmed their support for Moldova in implementing these solutions.

“The Digital Transformation Programme for the Energy Sector for 2026–2030 sets a vision for a digitized, resilient and consumer-oriented energy system. (...) Digitalization becomes the foundation of an energy system that is future-ready, reliable, cyber-secure and transparent. UNDP and its partners stay committed to piloting and expanding smart metering infrastructure,” said Seher Ariner, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP in Moldova.

Italy and UNDP support the Ministry of Energy in creating a modern smart metering infrastructure, based on advanced technologies for measuring, automatically transmitting and managing energy consumption.

So far, with the support of partners, 44,520 smart meters have been set in the north and center-south distribution areas. By 2027, the number of smart devices is estimated to exceed 100,000.

The programme and its action plan were developed by the Ministry of Energy in collaboration with UNDP Moldova and the government of Italy, marking a decisive step towards modernizing and securing the country's energy system.