Moldova has at least 11 territories with untapped wind energy potential.
According to a study conducted under the USAID Moldova Energy Security Activity (MESA), the potential of these territories will increase the share of "green" energy produced in the country to 30% by 2030. A total of 34 territories with wind energy potential were studied (excluding the traditional routes of migratory birds along the Dniester and Prut rivers, forest areas, so as not to harm the environment, as well as residential areas), taking into account existing radars and international airports. As specified by the Ministry of Energy, the study took into account the existing infrastructure, the distance to the nearest power plant, the capacity of the lines, the nearest access roads. After the first selection, 11 territories with high potential for the development of wind farms were identified. It is planned that for 3 territories the Moldova Energy Security Activity will expand the research - on-site measurements will be carried out, the relief will be studied, the physical capacity of the grid will be assessed and financial calculations will be made. This study planned to obtain optimal electricity prices and more efficient installations covering tens of hectares. The authors of the study also took into account the decarbonization goals set by the Moldovan authorities and concluded that it is feasible to build wind farms with an installed capacity of about 600 MW by 2030. USAID experts are also expected to support Moldelectrica in finding solutions for technical components and better utilizing this potential. Energy Minister Victor Parlicov said that, in parallel, a mechanism is being prepared, through which potential investors, who have received notifications on capacity reservation and connection, will complete the launched projects, instead of keeping the capacities blocked for years in order to sell them on the secondary market. // 24.10.2023 - InfoMarket.
