The development of energy storage capacities and their integration with new renewable energy projects is a major priority for the Republic of Moldova, in the context of strengthening energy security, increasing system resilience, and reducing import dependence. This statement was made by the Minister of Energy, Dorin Junghietu, at the Investors’ Conference held on January 29, dedicated to the new auction for onshore wind energy and modern battery energy storage systems (BESS).
The event brought together decision-makers, investors, and industry experts, providing a platform for dialogue on the strategic directions of Moldova’s energy transition and concrete investment opportunities in the energy sector.
In his speech, the Minister emphasized that Moldova’s energy transition has moved from concept to tangible results, and investments in modern, flexible, and sustainable solutions are essential for the future of the energy system.
"The first round of auctions attracted investments of approximately €200 million and created around 400 jobs. Today, Moldova is approaching the threshold of 1,000 MW of installed renewable energy capacity, compared to only 77 MW in 2020, representing a twelvefold increase in just five years. The mandatory integration of storage systems in the new auction is essential for grid flexibility, managing production variability, and ensuring the stability of the national energy system," said Minister of Energy Dorin Junghietu.
The Minister highlighted that wind energy and storage systems are key pillars of the energy transition, enabling the country to leverage its natural potential, reduce import dependence, and efficiently integrate renewable sources into the national grid. He also noted the economic impact of green investments, including job creation and regional development. Currently, Moldova records over 1,200 direct jobs in the solar photovoltaic sector and approximately 400 in the wind sector, with these figures steadily increasing.
At the event, Giuseppe Grimaldi, Head of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) Office in Moldova, reiterated the importance of this auction:
"This auction represents an important step in the Republic of Moldova’s energy transition and its path toward European integration, while being the first to combine renewable energy sources with storage. It reflects solid reforms and a commitment to a modern, resilient system aligned with EU standards. The auction provides investors with confidence through a transparent and innovative framework that supports the development of new capacities. We look forward to continuing our cooperation with the Ministry, building on the 2025 auctions and EBRD’s long-term support for this sector," said Giuseppe Grimaldi.
Continuing the discussions, the Minister stressed the Government’s commitment to maintaining a stable, transparent, and predictable regulatory framework for investors and to continuing energy sector reforms. Dorin Junghietu emphasized that the support mechanism proposed in the auction is designed to ensure a fair balance between investors’ interests and consumer protection, and that the mandatory integration of storage capacities reflects a modern and responsible approach to the development of the national energy system.
The Minister also highlighted the role of development partners in accelerating Moldova’s energy transition, noting that European support has significantly contributed to increasing the attractiveness of the energy market and aligning national policies with European standards.
The conference agenda included the presentation of the auction procedure and eligibility criteria for wind projects and storage systems, the “fixed price / variable premium” support mechanism, the auction timeline, and investors’ obligations regarding the construction, operation, and maintenance of wind farms and BESS systems.
The event provided participants with an opportunity for open dialogue between authorities, investors, experts, and the media, focused on translating strategic objectives into concrete projects and sustainable investments.
We remind that the second round of auctions for large-scale renewable energy capacities targets the construction of onshore wind farms with a capacity of up to 170 MW, with the obligation, under free-market conditions, to install energy storage systems (BESS) of at least 0.25 MWh per MW of wind capacity.
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is supporting the Ministry of Energy in the ongoing auction through technical assistance financed by the European Union and EBRD shareholders. As the largest institutional investor in Moldova, the EBRD has invested over €2.8 billion in 193 projects to date and remains a strong supporter of Moldova’s renewable energy ambitions.
