VIDEO // Over 100 localities in Moldova benefited from modernized street lighting with EU support

Over one hundred localities in the Republic of Moldova have benefited in the last three years from the modernization or extension of street lighting systems, with the support of the European Union, either through direct funding or through co‑financed national programmes.

According to data presented by the EU Delegation to the Republic of Moldova, the investments have increased the level of street illumination in the country’s towns to over 82%. The modernization of public lighting infrastructure is considered an important measure both for energy efficiency and for improving the quality of life in communities.

Authorities and development partners emphasize that the new lighting systems, based mainly on LED technology, allow for a reduction in energy consumption of up to 50–70%, which translates into significant savings for local budgets. At the same time, modern street lighting helps to enhance public safety by creating better visibility conditions at night.

Another benefit of the implemented projects is the use of renewable energy sources. In some localities, the lighting systems are powered partially or entirely by energy generated from solar panels, which helps reduce energy dependence and promote sustainable solutions.

One example is the locality of Drăgănești, where street lighting modernization works were carried out with financial support from the European Union, within the project Local Partnerships for Energy Efficiency in Social Services. The project is co‑financed and implemented by the Soros Foundation Moldova, in partnership with Keystone Moldova and Social Innovation Fund in Moldova.

Project representatives point out that such interventions contribute not only to the modernization of local infrastructure, but also to the creation of safer, more energy‑efficient communities that are better adapted to current sustainable development requirements.