VIDEO // WatchDog expert: Straseni–Gutinas overhead power line brings energy security, better rates to Moldova

The Straseni–Gutinas overhead power line represents a significant step for the energy security of Moldova, says an WatchDog.MD energy expert Eugen Muravschi. According to him, the new infrastructure will provide a more diversified and efficient network, will give more opportunities for trade and investment and will eventually create premises for better rates for consumers.

“The Straseni–Gutinas overhead power line means more energy security for Moldova, a more diversified and efficient network, more opportunities for trade and investment, and eventually, premises for better rates for consumers. This is what the path to energy security and independence looks like: not with empty promises of cheap gas in exchange for non-transparent political and economic concessions, but with major concrete investments in infrastructure, funded with the help of the EU and the USA, our true development partners,” Muravschi noted.

The expert points out that, despite Russian propaganda, which last winter claimed that Moldova would no longer receive financial support from the United States, the reality proves otherwise:

“Like the rest of the Russian propaganda, this too has proven false. The USA will indeed invest in the Straseni–Gutinas line,” added Muravschi.

The new line will securely and directly connect Moldova to Romania's electricity network, reducing vulnerability created by the current Isaccea–Vulcanesti–Chișinău line, which partly runs through Ukraine and can be exposed to military risks at any time.

“The fact that it is a direct connection means it is also a more efficient one for supplying the central region of Moldova. The shorter the route for electricity, the fewer power losses there are. This means lower transport costs and better prices for consumers,” the expert said.

At the same time, Muravschi highlights the economic opportunities this investment will bring:

“A new connection with Romania also means a greater potential for trade with electricity, both imports, and exports. Better integration with the Romanian market will make our market more attractive for entrepreneurs in the field and will help us attract private financing, order to build more electricity generation capacities here in the country. More investments and more energy generated locally mean, in fact, more independence.”

Moldova will benefit from a new Straseni–Gutinas overhead power line, a project financially supported with 130 million dollars from the United States. The line will span 190 km and will connect Moldova directly to Romania and the European network. The announcement about the new connection, which will eliminate energy blackmail and guarantee electricity for our country, was made by Prime Minister Dorin Recean.

“Partnerships bear fruit. While previously, not a single brick was laid or wire was drawn to unbind Moldova from blackmail and threat, in just four years, thanks to strong partnerships, Moldova is building its true independence,” stressed the PM.

President Maia Sandu welcomed the implementation of this energy project, emphasizing that this investment is quite important for Moldova and will strengthen cooperation with the United States of America.