Moldova is facing a significant challenge with its energy supply. Late Thursday evening, December 12, the Moldovan Parliament approved a state of emergency in the energy sector for 60 days, reports Ukrinform.
This decision came as a precaution against uncertainties surrounding the country’s gas supply from Russia.
Out of the voting members, 56 deputies from the ruling Action and Solidarity Party (PAS) supported the move.
Meanwhile, 17 deputies from the Bloc of Communists and Socialists opposed it, and two abstained. The emergency measures will officially begin on December 16.
The uncertainty stems from Moldova’s dependency on Russian gas. Moldova currently receives its gas under a contract with Gazprom that runs until October 2026.
However, since the fall of 2022, Gazprom has significantly limited the daily supply to 5.7 million cubic meters. This is far below Moldova’s needs during the winter months.
Since last year, all Russian gas has been directed to Transnistria, a breakaway region, where it is used for local consumption and electricity generation at the Moldovan DRES power plant.
This electricity is then supplied to both sides of the Dniester River. No payments have been made for the gas sent to Transnistria, creating further complications.
There is also uncertainty about how Russia might deliver gas to Moldova in the future. Under the current agreement, Gazprom is responsible for bringing gas to the Moldovan border.
An alternative route through the Trans-Balkan pipeline via Turkey could be used. However, December 16 is the deadline for Gazprom to reserve capacity through this route for Moldova.
On Wednesday, the Moldovan Cabinet of Ministers decided to declare a state of emergency in response to these risks.
This step reflects the seriousness of the situation and Moldova’s efforts to prepare for potential disruptions in its energy supply.
