Uncertainties Regarding Gas Supply in Transnistria After June 2026: Authorities Explore Transition Scenarios to Market Prices

There are uncertainties regarding the continuation of natural gas deliveries in the Transnistrian region after June 30, 2026. Currently, the supply is ensured by Moldovagaz, based on a decision by the National Agency for Energy Regulation, but the future of this mechanism remains unclear.

Options Analyzed by Authorities

The Deputy Prime Minister for Reintegration, Valeriu Chiveri, stated that authorities in Chișinău are examining several scenarios. These include both the extension of the current model and a gradual transition to a more transparent and predictable system based on market prices.

Impact on the Population

A shift to a market-based model could be challenging for residents on the left bank of the Dniester, who for approximately three decades have benefited from more favorable conditions and have not experienced the same price increases as those on the right bank.

Vulnerability of the Current System

Authorities emphasize that the existing mechanism is fragile and largely dependent on external factors, making it unstable in the long term.

Possible Support Measures

The introduction of compensations for vulnerable consumers in the region is also being considered. However, implementing these measures depends on the creation of a special convergence fund aimed at supporting the reintegration process.

Recent Decision and Delivery Context

On March 4, ANRE decided, at the request of the Ministry of Energy, that Moldovagaz should continue supplying gas until the end of June 2026, in order to maintain the existing operational mechanisms.

Current Delivery Scheme

Since February 2025, gas destined for the Transnistrian region has been delivered through a mechanism intermediated by the Russian Federation, which involves several companies registered in the United Arab Emirates and the Hungarian company MET. Through this circuit, the gas reaches Moldovagaz, designated by ANRE as the responsible supplier for the region.