Moldovan national energy regulator to have extended powers; parliament adopts new law on electricity

The National Energy Regulatory Agency (ANRE) will have increased authority in managing crises in the energy sector, according to the new law on electricity, passed today by 56 MPs in the final reading.

The project was developed by the Ministry of Energy and aims to stimulate competition, modernize the power system and integrate it into the European Union's energy market. The law reforms the legal framework, in order to ensure a functional, transparent and fair market for the benefit of consumers and economic actors.

One of the key innovations of the law is the extension of activities subject to licensing. Thus, such activities energy storage, energy trading and aggregation will be regulated. At the same time, the normative act establishes the general principles for the operation of wholesale electricity markets.

ANRE will play a crucial role in monitoring compliance with the decisions issued by the Commission for Emergency Situations. In case of infringements, the institution will be able to sanction license holders.

The law also includes provisions supporting consumers: by 2026, providers will have to make sure that the technical process of changing providers does not exceed 24 hours.

Also, the draft aims to encourage new business models in the energy field, including through the development of infrastructure for charging electric vehicles. The activity of supplying energy at charging stations will not require a license.