Moldovan heating compensations: Relief for rising energy costs
Even though the support provided for December will be higher, people in Moldova say it still won’t be enough to cover their bills.
In December, compensation amounts will range between 500 and 1,000 lei (~25-50 euro).
“We can’t keep up with the prices. It would be better if everyone received the same amount, without compensations, and electricity and gas were made cheaper.”
“It’s not even halfway now. Prices are extremely high, and inflation doesn’t seem to be taken into account. Young people with better-paying jobs can manage, but those of us with small pensions cannot.”
“Of course, price increases must be understood. I use gas heating, and now prices will rise further—who knows if gas will even be available.”
However, some citizens believe that any aid is welcome, regardless of its size.
“We should be grateful for what we have, but last year’s compensation was higher. This year, I only received 330 lei. It may not be much, but we’re still thankful for it. What’s important is having energy and gas.”
“They should be higher. Those who worked receive more, even a pension, but those who didn’t work or pay taxes have nothing.”
“It’s something, at least; for pensioners, it’s quite helpful.”
The compensations granted by the government in December will range between 500 and 1,000 lei, with the highest compensations going to those who heat with gas, announced the Minister of Labor and Social Protection, Alexei Buzu. In December, over 240,000 people will benefit from these compensations. For the most vulnerable—93,000 beneficiaries—the compensations will range between 900 and 1,000 lei.
The compensations will be available starting January 10. The Moldovan government spent 334 million lei on heating compensations for November, and estimates for December suggest these expenses could reach half a billion lei.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
