Moldova is following the development of the Green Energy Corridor initiative and is certainly interested in the possibility of joining it.
According to Renewables.az, Dorin Junquietu, the Minister of Energy of the Republic of Moldova, stated this in an interview with Report.
The Minister said that the issue of diversification of energy sources and routes of their delivery is key to Moldova's energy security: "We are closely following the development of the Green Energy Corridor initiative and are certainly interested in the possibility of joining it. This project can become an important element of regional integration and strengthen the connectivity of energy systems between countries that share common goals in the field of sustainable development.
In recent years, the development of solar energy has significantly intensified in Moldova. Photovoltaic installations have almost reached their potential, and interest in them remains high, especially considering that most of the investments were made without state support, on a free market basis. As for wind energy and bioenergy, the potential here remains significant. Moldova has extensive biomass resources, and this area is increasingly seen as promising for private investment. We are also open to the development of hydrogen energy, especially in the context of increasing generation from renewable sources. We welcome any investments from our Azerbaijani partners. Cooperation in these areas can bring mutual benefits and accelerate the green transition of both countries".
"We are finalizing the evaluation of the results of the first tender for the construction of wind and solar power plants with a total installed capacity of 165 MW. A new hybrid tender is planned for the autumn, which will include both the installation of additional generating capacity from renewable sources and energy storage systems. Currently, specialists from the Ministry of Energy are analyzing the needs of the power system and developing technical parameters for the future tender.
In addition, the transmission system operator, Moldelectrica, will hold a separate tender this year for the provision of power system balancing services. The Government of the Republic of Moldova welcomes the participation of foreign investors, regardless of their country of origin. We are interested in attracting Azerbaijani companies and invite them with great interest to participate in future tenders. To support investors in the renewable energy sector, Moldova has three key mechanisms in place that ensure the guaranteed purchase of generated electricity and facilitate the return on investment. Firstly, the net billing system, which replaced the previous net metering model on January 1, 2024, applies to small producers generating energy for their own consumption.
Secondly, a fixed tariff for 15 years - is provided to projects with a capacity of up to 1 MW (for solar generation) or up to 4 MW (for wind), without the need to participate in an auction. Thirdly, a fixed price for 15 years, distributed through an auction - applies to projects with a capacity of more than 1 MW (solar) or 4 MW (wind). Additionally, companies can implement projects on free market conditions, without participating in competitive procedures".
"We strive to ensure transparent and predictable conditions for all investors and expect that Azerbaijani business will become an active part of Moldova's energy transformation," - the Moldovan minister said.
According to him, by 2030, the Republic of Moldova commits to achieving a national goal of 30% share of energy from renewable sources in final energy consumption, keeping final energy consumption below 2,762 kilotons of oil equivalent, as well as reducing greenhouse gas emissions on the right bank of the Dniester by 68.5% compared to 1990, or by 88% if additional measures are applied.