EU reaffirms close energy cooperation with Moldova at High-Level Energy Dialogue in Vienna

Today, the EU has reiterated its support for Moldova and its energy sector at the third EU-Moldova High-Level Energy Dialogue, held in Vienna. The meeting was co-chaired by Commissioner for Energy, Kadri Simson, and Moldova’s Deputy Prime Minister, Andrei Spînu. In the context of Russia’s war in Ukraine, the dialogue centred around the challenges that Moldova faces this winter, and ways in which the EU can further help in terms of affordable and secure energy supplies. The discussions also looked forward at ways in which Moldova can adjust and reform its energy system in order to enable integration with the EU market and keep addressing challenges related to climate change.

After the meeting, Commissioner for Energy Kadri Simson said:

“Today’s meeting was another important sign that we are supporting Moldova in the particular energy challenges that it faces in the short to medium term. But today’s meeting has also enabled us to look further ahead and identify areas where Moldova can do more to facilitate market integration.”

In terms of security of supply for the coming winter, the Commission noted in particular Moldova’s optimism that its electricity and gas supplies are secured for this winter – aided in part by the recent first reverse gas flows from Slovakia and the Trans-Balkan corridor. The recent contract signed with the Transnistrian gas-fired plant will also help to stabilise electricity supply.

The Commission underlined its support to help vulnerable customers in Moldova in the face of high energy prices, referring to the Energy Vulnerability Fund and the pledges announced by the EU Member States as part of the Moldova support platform and the ‘Energy Community Rescue Scheme’.

The meeting also gave participants the opportunity to look further at the reforms that Moldova can undertake, such as unbundling the electricity and gas Transmission System Operators to enhance further energy market integration. These measures would also help to increase energy resilience and ensure a more rapid development of renewable energy.

Related links

• EU Neighbourhood-East - Moldova