Moldova considers rolling blackouts as energy prices triple
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Moldovan Prime Minister Vasile Tofan announced that authorities are considering rolling blackouts instead of purchasing expensive electricity on the exchange, where prices are two to three times normal levels. The short outages are intended to promote more prudent energy consumption. The consideration follows restrictions on water use imposed earlier this month as Dniester River levels dropped.
Rolling Blackout Proposal
Prime Minister Vasile Tofan confirmed that the government is discussing controlled power cuts as an alternative to buying high-cost electricity on the spot market. Tofan suggested that temporary outages could foster more responsible energy use among consumers. The proposal comes amid a persistent energy deficit that Moldova has been covering through exchange purchases.
Soaring Market Prices
Electricity prices on the exchange have increased to two to three times typical levels, according to the prime minister. The elevated costs are straining the budget and forcing the government to seek conservation measures. The energy crunch is exacerbated by low water levels in the Dniester River, which reduced hydropower output.
Preceding Water Restrictions
In early August, Moldova imposed curbs on water usage and electricity consumption. The measures were triggered by critically low water levels in the Dniester and escalating energy market prices. The restrictions reflect a broader regional strain, as neighboring Romania recently restarted a coal-fired power plant due to the Danube’s shallowness.
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