The power system of the Republic of Moldova will be connected to the Romanian and European grids through a new 400 kV overhead power line with an estimated length of 190 kilometers, being the third direct connection between Moldova and Romania, joining the Strășeni and Gutinaș power stations.

The construction of the new 400 kV overhead power line is foreseen by the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the US Government, represented by the US Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Government of the Republic of Moldova, represented by the Ministry of Energy.

Victor Parlicov, Minister of Energy: "This line means energy security and a condition to ensure the country's economic growth. Businesses can plan their activity because they have enough energy, and citizens can bet that they have light at home and all the comfort that depends on it".

The document was signed by USAID deputy administrator Isobel Coleman during her visit to Moldova.

Isobel Coleman, USAID Deputy Administrator: "Today, I am here to convey the commitment of the United States to support the Republic of Moldova in implementing a critically important project. Together, our efforts will contribute to the construction of a high-voltage power line that will connect Moldova to the European power grid, representing a positive connection, both directly and symbolically. "

The construction of the Strășeni-Gutinaș high-voltage power line is part of the #MoldovaConectat program, which is a broader USAID effort to strengthen Moldova's energy security and autonomy by linking local energy infrastructure with European energy infrastructure.

The #MoldovaConnected initiative aims to increase the country's energy security, contribute to Moldova's economic growth, social welfare, and independence from foreign influence.

In the long term, the high-voltage power line will provide access to multiple renewable energy sources, facilitate their integration into the national grid, ensure a constant energy supply and generate new jobs.

Kent Longsdon, US Ambassador to Moldova: "From addressing Moldova's immediate energy needs to accelerating the transition to green energy, the partnership between the United States and the Government of Moldova is going from strength to strength. USAID Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman's presence here today to sign this Memorandum of Understanding is a symbol of the United States' commitment to strengthening Moldova's energy security"

The Memorandum of Understanding between the US Government and the Government of the Republic of Moldova stipulates that the construction phase will start at the end of 2025, after several feasibility studies have been carried out, and the construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2029. On the territory of Moldova, the overhead power line will have a length of more than 70 kilometers out of a total of 190 kilometers and will start at the Strășeni power station.

In the coming years, investments of 220 million dollars are planned to improve the stability of the electricity grid and to increase opportunities for domestic generation using cost-competitive renewable energy resources.

More effective integration into regional electricity markets will facilitate Moldova's access to affordable electricity and, in the future, the possibility to export power to the European market.

This will propel the Republic of Moldova into a favorable position in trade relations with regional energy entities, contribute to the country's economic sustainability, improve social standards of living and create the necessary conditions for the development of Moldova's economy.

The United States strongly supports Moldova's EU integration efforts, and this high-voltage power line will help Moldova strengthen its ties with the EU as it moves forward with its membership aspirations.