VIDEO // Vulcanesti-Chisinau line to have 503 metal pillars weighing over 10,000 tons - equivalent to Eiffel Tower

The overhead power line Vulcanesti-Chisinau will comprise 503 metal pillars, cumulatively weighing over 10,000 tons – equivalent to the Eiffel Tower. The data was presented by the Energy Projects Implementation Unit, which provided details about the construction process.

The energy independence line includes three types of pillars, adapted to the terrain and technical needs.

Preparing the foundations is the most complex phase of construction, say experts. This involves deep excavations, strong reinforcements, and large volumes of concrete, all adapted to the terrain and specific conditions of each location.

After preparing the foundations, the next step is the installation of metal segments, a phase involving about 20 workers for each pillar. They assemble, piece by piece, the components of the pillar.

On the other hand, raising the pillar is practically the most visible and spectacular phase, but also very demanding as it involves working at heights, millimetric maneuvers with specialized equipment, and a team of technicians trained to operate in challenging conditions, dozens of meters above the ground.

"Foundation by foundation, pillar by pillar, insulator by insulator... firm and sustained steps for consolidating the resilience of the national energy system," wrote Energy Minister Dorin Junghietu.

Last week, head of state Maia Sandu visited the construction site of Vulcanesti-Chisinau overhead power line and announced that it is expected to become functional by the end of the year. The President emphasized that Vulcanesti-Chisinau Line is one of the most important energy projects launched since independence.

"This line will significantly enhance our country's energy security and protect us from the blackmail we have been subjected to for three decades," Maia Sandu remarked.

The 400 kV overhead electric line will be 157 kilometers long. Thus, over 500 pillars and 1,500 kilometers of conductors will create a strategic link between the south and center by intersecting eight districts and 35 localities.

The construction works for the Vulcanesti-Chisinau overhead power line effectively began in April 2024 and are part of the Power System Development Project, funded by the World Bank Group. Its value is 61 million euros, of which about 27 million euros are for the construction of the line.

The construction of Vulcanesti-Chisinau power line is a strategically important project for the energy security of our country. The new power line will allow the transport of electricity from Romania or other European markets to Chisinau, without passing through the Moldovan power plant located in the Transnistrian region.