The Commission for Exceptional Situations (CSE) has decided to simplify the process of obtaining grid connection permits. This decision aims to enhance the utilization of all available capacities for renewable electricity generation, given the significant impact of renewable energy sources in meeting electricity consumption needs.

Thus, companies that have completed at least the coordination phase of the execution procedure will receive grid connection permits from system operators by February 10, 2025, depending on the available capacity in the grid. This decision was consulted with key industry associations and applies to all entities that do not currently hold a valid grid connection permit but had one in the past, including prosumers.

This measure targets several companies that have already installed renewable power plants with a total capacity of 31 MW. Of this capacity, 23.5 MW already have valid grid connection permits, while 7.5 MW are physically prepared for renewable energy generation but lack connection permits. Once these plants are operational, Moldova will exceed 600 MW of renewable generation capacity, more than double the capacity of the thermal power plants in Chișinău and Bălți.

In parallel, the Ministry of Energy is urgently drafting a project to amend the Electricity Law. The amendment will introduce a mechanism to hold permit holders accountable, including the implementation of a financial guarantee, the value of which will be determined by the National Energy Regulatory Agency (ANRE).

Currently, Moldelectrica, the transmission system operator, has issued permits for approximately 1,500 MW of new capacity installations, primarily from renewable energy sources. However, less than 10% of these permits are activated annually. This situation limits opportunities for investors with genuine intentions to develop renewable energy plants.

Regarding distribution system operators, Premier Energy Distribution has issued grid connection permits with a total capacity of 329 MW, while S.A. "Rețelele Electrice de Distribuție Nord" has issued permits for approximately 96.4 MW.

The proposed amendments by the Ministry of Energy include the obligation to submit financial guarantees when applying for a grid connection permit for power plants with a capacity exceeding 200 kW. These guarantees will be reimbursed only if the power plant is commissioned in accordance with the grid connection permit. If the plant is not operational within the established deadlines, the financial guarantee will be used by the system operator to modernize the electricity grid.

These measures aim to unlock grid capacity for genuine investors with the necessary resources and intentions to complete green energy projects.