High-voltage energy project set to power Moldova by 2025
The construction of the Vulcănești-Chișinău high-voltage transmission line (LEA) has reached approximately 50% completion.
Additionally, 200 of the 507 foundations have been completed, and 30 pylons have already been installed. According to Ruslan Surugiu, Director of the Consolidated Energy Project Implementation and Monitoring Unit (UCIPE), the transmission line is expected to become operational by the end of this year.
The project, launched in April 2024, comprises three main components: the construction of the Vulcănești-Chișinău transmission line, the Chișinău transformer station, and the Vulcănești transformer station.
“I want to highlight that this stage, where certain equipment is being assembled and installed, marks the near-final phases of such a large-scale project. (...) This is a highly complex process. For context, there are over 6,400 property owners subject to expropriation. This requires identifying the owners, defining the assets, evaluating them for compensation, and ensuring compliance with the legal framework,” said Ruslan Surugiu during the “Zi de zi” program on Radio Moldova. He further confirmed that work is progressing as planned with the contractors. As weather conditions improve, the pace of construction will accelerate in March, with the completion deadline remaining set for December 2025.
The UCIPE Director noted that the main challenges in the construction process stem from the impact of the war in Ukraine, which has disrupted material deliveries and workforce availability. “So far, we have faced various unforeseen issues, such as having to entirely revise material delivery plans, workforce arrangements, or transportation routes for materials and equipment. All these had to be adjusted and modified due to the war,” he explained.
It is important to note that the transmission line will cover over 50% of electricity consumption during peak demand periods and will also enable the export of energy generated from renewable sources. “The greatest advantage is that we will no longer be vulnerable in terms of infrastructure. Currently, as you know, around 50% of our energy imports pass through the MGRES-Cuciurgan energy node. Beyond this, the project strengthens the internal electricity transmission system, enabling both imports and, if needed, exports of electricity, as we continue to develop domestic renewable energy production,” Surugiu emphasized.
The total cost of the Power System Development Project is estimated at €61 million, with €27 million specifically allocated for the Vulcănești-Chișinău transmission line. The project is funded by the World Bank, with direct beneficiaries being the state enterprise Moldelectrica and energy consumers.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
