Moldova opens new power line to end dependence on Russian-controlled supply routes.
Moldova commissioned the 400 kW Vulcanănești–. Chisinau overhead power line on November 8, providing a direct route for importing electricity from Romania and the European market to the country's capital, where much of the country's economic activity is concentrated, reducing reliance on transmission infrastructure that crosses Transnistria and Ukraine.
The swearing-in ceremony at the power plant in Chisinau was attended by President Maia Sandu, European Union Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos and Minister of Energy Dorin Jungito, according to a statement from the Moldovan presidency.
Sandu said the new infrastructure removed a key vulnerability in Moldova's energy system, which was exposed during periods when supply routes and access to electricity were used to put pressure on the country. In the past, the bulk of imports were handled by the Russian-controlled MoldGRES power plant on the territory of separatist Transnistria.
"The dependence on a limited number of sources and ways of supply has cost us. Every time Moldova dared to choose something different from what Moscow wanted, we were threatened with being left without light and heat. And there were times when we were disconnected," Sandow said.
The president described Vulcanănești–. Chisinau line as one of the most important strategic infrastructure investments in Moldova, saying it will give the country greater freedom to choose its electricity suppliers.
"This project strengthens our ability to buy energy without being exposed to pressure and extortion," she said.
Sando added that the activation of the line eliminated a major vulnerability in the energy system, saying that "no one can blackmail us anymore."
Kos said the new infrastructure marked a significant change in Moldova's energy relations with Russia.