FERM 2024 | Message from the Secretary General of the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Moldova, Andrei GRIȚCO

Panel “INVESTMENTS”

Module IV – Romania – Republic of Moldova Cooperation through the Moldova Region, 18th edition of the Moldova Regional Economic Forum, Vatra Dornei, 2024

Speaker: Andrei GRIȚCO, Secretary General of the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Moldova

Topic: „The investment potential of the Moldova Region as an accelerator of energy transition in the Republic of Moldova”

At the Regional Economic Forum Moldova 2024, Andrei Grițco, Secretary General of the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Moldova, emphasized the crucial importance of collaboration between Romania and the Republic of Moldova in the energy sector. His speech highlighted the significant progress made by the Republic of Moldova in the energy sector and outlined ambitious plans for the future.

Modernizing the energy sector

Opening his speech, Grițco stated: „Energy is not just a cornerstone for investment, but also the heart of economic development and national security”. This has been the guiding principle for the Republic of Moldova in modernizing its energy sector in recent years. One of the crucial steps was transitioning from a regulated to a free market in the natural gas segment, which completely eliminated the use of Russian gas on the right bank of the Dniester. “This was not just a technical change, but also a strategic one that allowed us to diversify our supply sources and strengthen the energy independence of the Republic of Moldova”, Grițco explained.

Interconnection with the European System

Another essential aspect discussed was the development of energy infrastructure through interconnection with the European system. Projects for constructing overhead power lines Bălți-Suceava, Vulcănești-Isaccea, and Strășeni-Ungheni-Gutinaș are underway. „These projects are not just plans on paper; they represent the foundation for a more secure and prosperous energy future”, Grițco stated, expressing gratitude to Romania for its continuous support and solid partnership in realizing these essential initiatives.

Promoting renewable sources

Regarding renewable energy, the Republic of Moldova has launched tenders for 105 MW of wind energy and 60 MW of solar energy. These initiatives are crucial for achieving the goal of increasing the share of electricity produced from renewable sources to 27% by 2030. „Imagine a Republic of Moldova where every third kilowatt-hour comes from clean and sustainable sources”, Grițco noted, highlighting the importance of these measures for a sustainable energy future.

Innovation and Technology

One project presented by Grițco was the launch of innovative testing spaces known as Sandboxes. These will provide a controlled environment for testing and developing new energy technologies. „The draft law on this matter has already been approved by the Government and is awaiting examination by the Legislature. I invite business representatives to explore these opportunities, which can turn innovative ideas into reality”, Andrei Grițco stated, encouraging collaboration and innovation in the energy sector.

In conclusion, Andrei Grițco expressed optimism for the future and thanked the participants for the opportunity to discuss the region’s energy future. „I look forward to future collaborations and am confident that together we will succeed in turning our vision into reality”, the Secretary General of the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Moldova concluded, emphasizing the commitment to a safer and more prosperous energy future for the Republic of Moldova and the region.