Moldova has reached a major milestone in its energy security ambitions with the near-completion of the Vulcănești-Chișinău high-voltage transmission line. The Ministry of Energy announced that testing has finished and final preparations are underway, with the project expected to be fully operational by the end of June 2026.
The transmission line is considered one of Moldova’s most important energy-security projects. Once operational, it will allow electricity imported from Romania and European markets to reach central and northern Moldova directly, reducing the country’s dependence on older infrastructure and strengthening its energy independence.
A €61 Million Investment in Energy Security
The project is financed through international loans worth €61 million, reflecting the strong support of international financial institutions in Moldova’s energy transition. The new high-voltage line will provide a reliable and modern connection between Moldova’s electricity grid and the European network, a critical step as the country seeks to diversify its energy sources.
Reducing Dependence on Legacy Infrastructure
For years, Moldova has relied on aging power infrastructure that left the country vulnerable to supply disruptions. The Vulcănești-Chișinău line addresses this by creating a direct, high-capacity corridor for electricity imports from Romania. This is particularly significant given the ongoing energy challenges in the region, including the impact of Russia’s war against Ukraine on energy supplies.
Part of a Broader Moldova-Romania Energy Strategy
The transmission line is part of a broader strategy to integrate Moldova’s energy market with the European Union. Moldova and Romania are also preparing a new agreement on strategic transport infrastructure, which includes the future bridge across the Prut River at Ungheni and coordinated border controls to facilitate travel and trade between the two countries.
Supporting Moldova’s European Integration
The completion of this energy project aligns with Moldova’s ongoing European integration efforts. The country recently opened its first EU accession negotiation cluster, and energy security is a key component of the accession process. A reliable and European-connected energy grid demonstrates Moldova’s commitment to meeting EU standards and reducing its vulnerability to external pressure.
What Comes Next
With testing complete, the focus is now on final commissioning procedures. Once fully operational, the line will serve as a backbone for Moldova’s electricity supply, supporting economic growth, improving quality of life for citizens, and strengthening the country’s position as a reliable partner in the European energy market.