Moldova Imposes Energy Restrictions After Gazprom Cuts Off gas
moldova is grappling with a severe energy crisis,prompting the government to implement sweeping energy-saving measures starting january 1st. The crisis follows Gazprom’s announcement that it is halting natural gas supplies to the country due to alleged unpaid debts. these restrictions impact public buildings, businesses, and citizens alike.
The State Commission for Emergency Situations has mandated a minimum 30% reduction in interior lighting for public buildings and commercial facilities. Further measures include limiting the operation of elevators and escalators, particularly during peak hours. Energy-intensive industrial processes will be rescheduled to avoid peak demand, and citizens are urged to refrain from using elevators during these times. Exporting electricity is also banned.
The Moldovan government has directly blamed Russia for the crisis. A government statement asserts,“Moldova is in a state of emergency due to a potential humanitarian crisis in the Transnistrian region due to the Russian Federation’s failure to fulfill a contract for the supply of natural gas to consumers left of the Dniester.This could lead to a cessation of electricity production at the Kuchurgan power plant.”
Gazprom’s announcement, effective January 1st, 2025, confirmed the complete cessation of gas supplies to Moldova. The company cited Moldova’s consistent failure to meet its payment obligations as the reason for the drastic action.Moldovan Prime Minister Doreen Rechan has rejected the claim of outstanding debt and indicated that Chisinau may pursue international arbitration to challenge Gazprom’s decision.
According to reports from EADaily, Gazprom’s restrictions on natural gas supplies to Moldova began at 8 a.m. Moscow time on January 1st, 2025, resulting in zero cubic meters of gas being delivered daily. The company stated that the Moldovan side’s refusal to address the debt issue constitutes a meaningful breach of contract.
The energy crisis in Moldova has significant implications for the region and raises concerns about potential humanitarian consequences. The situation underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics impacting energy security in Eastern Europe and highlights the ongoing tensions between moldova and russia.
