Authorities urge public to cut electricity use amid expected power shortage between 9:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m.
The Republic of Moldova may experience an electricity shortage this evening, August 4, due to high consumption driven by the ongoing heat wave and decreased energy production in the region. Energy Minister Dorin Junghietu urged the public to conserve electricity to prevent potential disconnections.
According to the minister, the ongoing heat wave affecting the entire region has resulted in a significant increase in electricity consumption, while production remains limited due to the extremely low flow of the Danube River, which impacts the operation of some power plants. As a result, the Republic of Moldova is directly experiencing challenges in the regional market, from which it imports part of its energy needs.
"For this evening, between 9:00 PM and 11:00 PM, we anticipate an electricity deficit of 130 MWh. Up to this point, in collaboration with Energocom and all the involved operators, we have done everything possible to purchase available energy from the market and will utilize the emergency energy mechanisms managed by Moldelectrica," said Dorin Junghietu.
The minister cautioned that if the required amount of energy cannot be secured, there may be interruptions in electricity supply.
"If we fail to find the necessary quantity on the market, there is a risk of power disconnections. To reduce this risk, we also need your help," the official stated.
The authorities are urging consumers to minimize the use of high-consumption household appliances during this critical period and to limit the use of air conditioners to what is strictly necessary.
"If each family reduces consumption slightly between 9:00 PM and 11:00 PM, the cumulative effect can be significant. Please turn off unnecessary lights, postpone using the washing machine, electric oven, or other large household appliances, and use air conditioning only if absolutely necessary. These small actions, taken by hundreds of thousands of people, can help keep the lights on in our homes," the minister urged.
At the same time, Dorin Junghietu advised citizens to prepare for possible power outages.
"It is wise to be prepared for any eventuality: charge your mobile phones now, ensure you have flashlights or other sources of lighting, and avoid unnecessary use of electrical equipment during this period," the minister said.
In conclusion, the official called for solidarity and responsibility, emphasizing that saving energy during peak consumption hours can help maintain the stability of the energy system.
"In times like these, every kilowatt saved counts. Together, we can keep the system stable and navigate this difficult period," concluded Dorin Junghietu.
