Moldovan PM presents in parliament proposal to declare state of emergency

Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu today presented in parliament the proposal to declare a state of emergency in the energy sector for a period of 60 days. The official stressed that the measure was necessary and would allow the authorities to act quickly, avoid bottlenecks and protect citizens.

“We are not coming with an option; we are coming with a necessity. It is a necessary, legal and preventive measure. It allows us to act quickly, to avoid bottlenecks and, most importantly, to protect people, our citizens,” said Alexandru Munteanu.

The PM noted that Moldova was directly and deliberately affected by Russia’s attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.

“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. Last night, the country’s main power line, Vulcanesti–Isaccea, which covers up to 60–70 per cent of electricity consumption, was disconnected. The four interconnection lines with Romania have been activated, but the situation stays complicated. Starting from March 25, the estimated deficit will reach up to 350–400 MW during peak hours. Cascading outages, as you can deduce, remain highly possible,” specified Prime Minister Munteanu.

The PM explained the need to declare a state of emergency.

“I want to answer one question directly. Why a state of emergency and not a state of alert? Because we are not talking about a potential risk, but about an impact that has already occurred and is worsening. The energy system is affected, operating at the limit and exposed to risks that may recur. A state of alert offers us limited tools that do not allow us to intervene comprehensively and in real time. By declaring a state of emergency, we will be able to organize and maintain consumption islands supplied through 110 kV interconnection lines; it will allow us to secure energy resources in an emergency regime, by activating emergency aid contracts and requesting electricity from adjacent transmission system operators; we will be able to intervene quickly in procurement procedures. We will also be able to protect critical infrastructure. We will also be able to work directly with operators and external partners. And finally, if necessary, we will prioritize consumption, so that social and essential institutions and the population are protected,” the prime minister noted.

The PM emphasized that “every hour counts, given that the infrastructure is affected and the risks are real and high.”

The official assured that the situation was being constantly monitored, field teams are prepared and interventions are ongoing. According to him, the reconnection process is underway, but it depends on safety conditions, including demining work in the affected area.

“To all MPs, the Government’s appeal is one of solidarity and consolidation. It is extremely important that you support this decision. That we support each other, quickly and responsibly. This is not a decision of the government. It is a decision for citizens, for stability, for the safety of all of us,” said Alexandru Munteanu.

The prime minister also had a special message for citizens.

“In the context, it is vitally necessary to use energy responsibly. Let us avoid unnecessary consumption, especially during peak hours. And above all, let us get our information from official sources. And let us remain united. We have already shown that we can endure. We have gone through many crises. And we have remained standing. We will manage this situation too with calm, responsibility and dignity,” concluded Alexandru Munteanu.

The government today held an extraordinary meeting and approved the proposal to declare a state of emergency in the energy sector for a period of 60 days, after the Isaccea–Vulcanesti overhead power line had been disconnected on March 23 evening, following attacks on the energy infrastructure in southern Ukraine. Under these conditions, the authorities have activated alternative supply routes, including the four 110 kV interconnection lines between Romania and Moldova.