Moldova decided to buy gas through direct negotiations on the markets

CHISINAU, Sep 15 – PRIME. State-owned enterprise Energocom will be able to purchase natural gas through direct negotiations, the press service of the Moldovan government said.

“In the context of high volatility in regional natural gas markets, Energocom JSC will be able to sell and buy natural gas through direct negotiations or through commodity exchanges in the markets of countries that are members of the Energy Community at the best prices,” the Cabinet’s website said.

Moldova is experiencing an energy crisis due to rising energy prices. Earlier, Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Spinu said that the authorities intend to reduce gas consumption in winter by at least 15%. The authorities have developed and submitted for discussion a plan that includes turning off street lighting, lowering the central heating temperature, transferring schoolchildren and students to distance learning. On August 1, the Moldovagaz company began disconnecting consumers who did not pay for the services for the supply of natural gas on time.

In October, the Moldovan authorities agreed with Gazprom to extend the contract for the supply of gas to the republic, subject to an audit of the Moldovagaz debt in 2022. “Gazprom” said that, taking into account the situation in Moldova, it was decided to sign the contract practically on the terms of the Moldovan side, but subject to timely 100% payment of current payments. Gazprom has the opportunity to stop gas supplies to the republic at any time.