Moldova has extended its state of heightened readiness due to water and energy problems
In Moldova, the state of heightened readiness has been extended for another 30 days in two sectors at once—energy and water resources. The country fears new problems with electricity and water supplies due to low river levels, a decline in local power generation, and difficulties with energy imports.
On August 26, the Moldovan government decided to extend the special measures for another month. This involves heightened readiness in the energy sector and in the field of hydrology. These measures were originally introduced in July and were set to expire on August 26. They will now remain in effect for another 30 days. The government considered the decision based on a proposal by Energy Minister Dorin Junghiu and Environment Minister Gheorghe Hăjdere.
The reason for this step is a complex situation involving several resources. Available generating capacity in Europe has decreased, fuel prices have risen, and logistical problems are complicating the supply of energy resources via certain routes.
Sergei Diaconu, director of the National Crisis Management Center, stated that the situation in the energy market remains challenging not only in Moldova but also at the regional and global levels. “The situation in the electricity and petroleum products markets remains complex at both the regional and global levels,” said Daconu. According to him, disruptions in logistics chains have already affected fuel prices and the ability to deliver energy resources along certain routes.
Moldova Depends on Electricity Imports
Despite the challenging situation, Moldova managed to meet the country’s electricity needs in the first half of August. However, a significant portion of the supply had to be purchased abroad. Depending on the volume of local generation from renewable sources, imports covered between 58% and 79% of daily electricity consumption.
This means that on days when solar and other renewable power plants generate less electricity, Moldova’s dependence on external supplies increases. At the same time, the government is monitoring more than just electricity. Water availability is becoming a separate issue.
The Dniester River Is Rapidly Shallow
The situation at the Dniester Reservoir is of particular concern. The water level there has dropped more than 9 meters below the natural maintenance level. Low water levels pose additional risks to water supply and the operation of infrastructure that depends on water resources. There are also problems on the Danube. Due to reduced navigable depth on the Sulina Canal, large-tonnage seagoing vessels can no longer fully reach the Giurgiulești International Free Port.
This is important not only for transportation. The port is one of the key hubs for cargo transit, so restrictions on navigation could complicate logistics and supply chains. Another problem area is the Prut River. In the Costeşti-Stinka Reservoir, the water level is currently about 7 meters below normal.
In addition, some of the Prut’s tributaries have almost completely dried up. The situation illustrates just how serious the water shortage is becoming for the country after a prolonged period of low water levels.
The government does not rule out stricter measures
For now, Moldova continues to monitor the situation and is trying to ensure a stable supply of necessary resources. However, authorities warn that a further deterioration of the situation may require additional measures. According to Sergiu Diaconu, the course of events may force the government to resort to stricter measures.
Thus, the coming month will be crucial for Moldova in two respects. The country must simultaneously monitor the stability of its power grid and its water reserves, which continue to dwindle due to low river levels. This was reported by TV8.
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