EU Boosts Electricity Import Capacity for Moldova and Ukraine to 2,450 MW

Increased Capacity Bolsters Energy Security

The maximum capacity for electricity imports from the European Union to the joint Ukraine-Moldova regulatory block has been significantly increased to 2,450 megawatts (MW) for January. This represents a rise from the previous limit of 2,150 MW and is a result of collaborative efforts among transmission system operators within the Eastern Europe Capacity Calculation Region (EE CCR), the continental European grid body ENTSO-E, and the TSCnet Regional Coordination Centre.

Ukraine's state grid operator, Ukrenergo, announced the increase, highlighting its importance for balancing the power system. Vitaliy Zaichenko, Chairman of the Management Board of Ukrenergo, stated, 'The increase in technical capacity for electricity imports to Ukraine during the cold period and amid Russian attacks is undoubtedly a positive change.' He added that it 'provides us with additional opportunities to balance the power system and enhances its resilience to various threats.'

Moldova's Path to Energy Independence

Moldova, a country with limited domestic energy resources, has historically relied heavily on imports of electricity and natural gas, often from Russia and the separatist Transnistrian region. Its domestic electricity production accounts for only about 20 percent of its annual consumption. The war in Ukraine and previous disruptions to energy supplies have underscored Moldova's vulnerability and accelerated its efforts to diversify sources and integrate with the European energy market.

A crucial step in this direction was the synchronization of the Moldovan and Ukrainian power systems with the Continental European grid (ENTSO-E) in March 2022. This integration has allowed for greater flexibility and access to European electricity markets, reducing dependence on traditional suppliers.

Broader EU Support for Moldova's Energy Transition

The increase in import capacity is part of a broader strategy by the European Union to support Moldova's energy security and independence. The EU has provided substantial financial assistance, including €240 million in direct budget support to Moldova's energy system between 2021 and 2024. This aid has helped vulnerable populations and supported investments in energy efficiency and green energy transition.

The EU and Moldova have also agreed on a comprehensive energy strategy aimed at decoupling Chișinău 'from the insecurities of Russian supply' and 'fully integrating' it into the EU energy market. This multi-phase strategy includes emergency support and long-term investments to enhance energy resilience and reduce reliance on external, unstable sources.