Moldovan PM says emergency state in energy sector necessary measure allowing authorities to act quickly, avoid bottlenecks, protect the people

The parliament has approved the establishment of a state of emergency in the energy sector for a period of 60 days, starting from March 25. At the parliament’s plenary meeting, Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu said that the main power line supplying Moldova – the Vulcanesti–Isaccea line – had been disconnected following Russia’s attacks on Ukraine’s civilian energy infrastructure.

“Today, we are not coming before Parliament with an option. We are coming with a necessity. We are no longer talking only about indirect pressure – energy blackmail or propaganda. We are talking about actions that directly endanger the security, health and lives of our citizens. I want it to be very clear: we are taking action, because in this regional context, we cannot build safety on assumptions. This is a necessary, legal and preventive measure, that allows us to act quickly, avoid bottlenecks and, most importantly, protect the people,” the PM said.

Munteanu noted that the four interconnection lines with Romania had been activated, but the situation stays complicated. Starting from March 25, the estimated deficit is expected to reach 350–400 MW during peak hours. Technical teams continue constant monitoring and on-site inspections, in order to safely repair the fault and restore the normal functioning of the energy infrastructure.

Under these conditions, the declaration of a state of emergency will allow the authorities to act quickly and in a coordinated manner: to organize and maintain consumption islands supplied through the 110 kV interconnection lines; to secure energy resources in an emergency regime by activating emergency assistance contracts and requesting electricity from adjacent transmission system operators; to intervene rapidly in procurement procedures and to protect critical infrastructure.

Additionally, if necessary, the government will be able to order consumption rationalization and impose special operating rules for economic operators, so that the critical objects of the economy and social institutions are protected.

“To citizens, the message is clear: in this context, it is urgently necessary that we use energy responsibly. We must avoid unnecessary consumption, especially during peak hours. And above all, we must seek information from official sources and remain united. We have already shown that we can withstand hardship. We have gone through many crises and remained standing; we will manage this situation as well. With calm, responsibility and dignity,” the prime minister added.