Moldova has commissioned the 157-kilometer, 400 kV Vulcanesti-Chisinau transmission line, creating a route for imported electricity to reach the capital without relying on infrastructure passing through Transnistria. The line is intended to reduce a persistent power-security vulnerability and dependence on the Cuciurgan hub.
Extending the existing Isaccea-Vulcanesti corridor, the line allows electricity from Romania and other European markets to move directly toward Moldova’s main consumption center. It is part of efforts to expand import options and access to European electricity markets.
The project is included in the World Bank-backed Power System Development Project, whose financing agreement was signed in September 2019. The wider project is valued at around EUR 61 million. Commissioning is accompanied by modernization of the 330 kV facility in Chisinau and expansion of the 400 kV Vulcanesti substation, works required to integrate the new corridor into Moldova’s network.
Moldova is preparing a proposed 400 kV Balti-Suceava interconnection with Romania, estimated to cost EUR 77 million. Financing support is expected from the EBRD, EIB and European Union.
A separate Straseni-Gutinas link with Romania is also planned, with US grant financing expected to support its development. The two planned links, together with the commissioned line, are intended to deepen Moldova’s access to European electricity markets.
