The selection of participants for innovative energy testing spaces will be managed by a special commission, whose composition will be approved by the Government. This provision is part of the mechanism for implementing energy innovations, adopted today during the Cabinet of Ministers meeting.

In this context, the document establishes a clear legal framework that will facilitate the development and implementation of innovative solutions, as outlined in the Commission's sandbox regulations.

This regulation will support the testing of new technologies and business models, while also promoting the energy transition and strengthening the country’s energy security.

“The Commission for Innovative Testing Spaces is a key element for the proper functioning of sandboxes, providing a regulated framework for energy companies, startups, and researchers who wish to test advanced technologies and next-generation business solutions,” said Cristina Pereteatcu, State Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, upon the approval of the Regulation.

The mechanism adopted by the Government will ensure a clear framework for organizing and implementing innovative testing projects, including selection procedures for participation in sandboxes and the evaluation of submitted projects.

The commission, composed of 10 members, will act as a collegial body without legal personality, with its composition approved by the Government. It will include:

A representative of the central public administration authority in the energy sector, who will serve as the Commission's President;

A representative of the central public administration authority responsible for natural resources and the environment;

A representative of the National Agency for Energy Regulation;

A representative of the Intelligence and Security Service;

A representative of the Technical University of Moldova;

A representative of the National Center for Sustainable Energy;

A representative of the Institute of Energy within the Technical University of Moldova;

Three internationally recognized independent experts.

The commission will collaborate with all relevant authorities and institutions in the sector, supporting participants through consultancy and monitoring project implementation, while ensuring a transparent and efficient process.

It is worth mentioning that the Sandbox Law, which provides for the development of innovative solutions in energy production, consumption, and distribution, was passed by Parliament in July 2024. The Republic of Moldova was the first country in Central and Eastern Europe to launch a sandbox regulatory framework, aimed at fostering innovation and attracting investments in the energy sector. The mechanism was developed by the Ministry of Energy with support from UNDP Moldova and funding from Denmark, Luxembourg, South Korea, and Sweden, thereby strengthening the sustainable development objectives of the energy sector and promoting innovative energy solutions.

The sandboxes will support both investment attraction and the achievement of national sustainable development goals, including increasing the share of renewable energy and achieving climate neutrality by 2050.