A complex supply arrangement keeps the region running, but officials are preparing for a scenario that could quickly affect both energy systems.
Moldova is prepared for a possible halt in natural gas supplies to the breakaway region of Transnistria.
As part of a public consultation on the draft materials for the 2026–2027 heating season preparedness plan, a set of measures has been proposed in case gas supplies to the region are cut off.
Under the plan, the course of action will be developed by the Reintegration Bureau together with the Ministry of Energy, the National Energy Regulatory Agency, the state-owned company Energocom, and Moldovagaz, which is responsible for supplying gas to Transnistria.
According to the Ministry of Energy, these measures are necessary because of the risk of supply disruptions amid a high level of uncertainty, including dependence on external payment mechanisms.
The authors of the draft note that despite the existing supply arrangement for Transnistria, the risk of unexpected disruptions remains. This could lead to imbalances in Moldova’s gas and electricity systems and restrict consumers in the region from accessing gas at market prices.
The plan also stipulates that the company responsible for gas transit to Transnistria will continuously monitor natural gas supplies to meet the needs of the breakaway region.
Gas supplies to Transnistria are currently being delivered under a complex Hungarian arrangement agreed upon by Tiraspol, Chisinau, and Brussels: the gas is purchased on the EU market, delivered to the Moldovan border by Hungary’s MET Gas and Energy Marketing AG, and transited through Transnistria by Moldovagaz; payment is made by a company registered in Dubai using funds from a Russian special-purpose loan.
Last winter, Transnistria already declared an economic state of emergency due to a shortage of natural gas.
Possible scenarios and next steps
If circumstances change, the plan provides for the prompt adjustment of measures with the involvement of the relevant authorities and for ensuring a stable gas supply to consumers in the region.