Energy Minister Dorin Junghietu made this announcement, noting that to those who do not work in the energy sector, this may seem like nothing more than a technical step. However, for energy professionals, this is one of the most critical tests before the Vulcanesti-Chisinau power line is put into commercial operation. Applying voltage to the power line allows for testing the entire route, protective equipment, control systems, and the behavior of the installations under real operating conditions. “This is the moment when thousands of hours of design, construction, and testing are validated as a single integrated system. This project is not just a 157-kilometer power transmission line. It means the ability to transport energy directly from Romania to central Moldova, without the vulnerabilities of the old infrastructure. It means a safer, more sustainable, and better-connected energy system with the European market,” stated the Minister of Energy. According to him, final tests and inspections will follow before the Vulcanesti-Chisinau power line is put into commercial operation. Last week, it was reported that the first 100-kilometer section of the Vulcanesti-Chisinau power line had been energized. The 400-kV Vulcanesti-Chisinau power line is scheduled to enter commercial operation at the end of August, following the completion of all tests and acceptance procedures. The Vulcanesti-Chisinau power line will be capable of transmitting up to 630 MVA of electricity, which is equivalent to more than 50% of the country’s total consumption during peak load periods. The construction of this power line is being carried out as part of the Power System Development Project, financed by the World Bank Group. The total cost of the project is 61 million euros, of which approximately 27 million euros are allocated for the construction of the line.