Moldova, Romania signed Memorandum on interconnection of natural gas and electricity networks

Chisinau, Dec. 11 /MOLDPRES/- Minister of Energy of the Republic of Moldova Victor Parlicov and Romanian counterpart Sebastian-Ioan Burduja signed today in Chisinau a Memorandum of Understanding on development of projects to interconnect natural gas and electricity networks.

According to Parlicov, the collaboration with Romania, especially on the energy dimension, has intensified in recent years. "The memorandum marks a joint commitment to strengthen collaboration and sustainable development of the energy sector. The document will contribute to achieving our goal of becoming part of the European energy market even before becoming a member country of the European Union. I thank Romania for unconditional support for the Republic of Moldova. Romania is the main partner and advocate of the Republic of Moldova on EU integration", he said.

Minister of Energy of Romania Sebastian-Ioan Burduja said that energy can be used as a weapon of blackmail or as a tool for economic development. "Romania is on the verge of achieving energy independence, being this year a net exporter of electricity and relying only on domestically produced gas. As for energy security, we were happy to see investments in infrastructure in recent years, which allow the diversification of supply sources, and we are planning the next steps. The Republic of Moldova can always count on Romania's support", he said.

The official said that Transelectrica will soon announce the tender for the construction of the Suceava-Bălți high voltage line, which will be ready in a maximum of three years.

The memorandum sees the possibility to increase the natural gas transport capacity and expand Iasi-Ungheni-Chisinau gas pipeline through the construction of a gas transport pipeline - Chisinau Belt. According to the Ministry of Energy, this objective could be achieved by late 2031. Also, the development of the natural gas storage system on Romanian territory will be supported by increasing the natural gas storage capacity at the Sărmășel warehouse and/or building a new warehouse in Fălticeni.

In terms of electricity, the Memorandum concerns the 400 kV Overhead Power Line Suceava - Bălți, the extension of the 400 kV Suceava station and the 400 kV Bălți station, the 400 kV Overhead Power Line interconnection between Strășeni and a power station on the territory of Romania, established by Transelectrica company, as well as the development of the existing 110kV Huși-Cioara electricity interconnection line.