The Moldovan Ministry of Energy presented to the business community the concept and concrete steps in the process of establishing energy communities
According to the Ministry, the discussions were attended by a significant number of representatives of the local business community, including representatives of local manufacturers, the banking sector, and telecommunications companies. Representatives of the National Energy Regulatory Agency were also invited to the meeting and detailed specific steps in the process of establishing energy communities. During the meeting, business representatives were informed that any end-user of energy can be a member of an energy community, including individuals, owners' associations, non-profit organizations, small and medium-sized enterprises, and local governments, which opens up significant opportunities for all economic entities. “Energy communities represent a valuable opportunity for Moldova's business environment by promoting energy autonomy. By producing their own energy at much more favorable prices, they will make a significant contribution to the competitiveness of the economy, to the development of new jobs and opportunities for businesses of all sizes,” Carolina Novac, State Secretary of the Energy Ministry, said at a meeting with business representatives. Renewable energy communities are autonomous entities made up of local members who cooperate in the production, consumption and distribution of renewable energy, she said. Their goal is to reduce energy costs, promote sustainable community development and generate tangible economic benefits. The rights of energy community members include: production, consumption, storage, supply and sale of renewable energy; non-discriminatory access to energy markets; and distribution of produced energy among community members. Obligations include compliance with legislation, fair participation in the costs of the energy system, and notification to the National Agency for Energy Regulation of changes in status. For members of energy communities, their establishment implies lower energy costs through local production of renewable energy and the possibility of direct control over consumption and decision-making. The development of energy communities in Moldova is supported by international development partners. Among them is UNDP Moldova, which announced a tender to select 2 NGOs for pilot projects of the first energy communities, providing grants of up to $100 thousand. The German Energy Agency (DENA) is also supporting local authorities in the process of establishing energy communities, including technical advice and identifying sources of funding for equipment. In addition, INTERREG Danube Region supports the creation of conditions for the development of energy communities in the Danube region. USAID Moldova is supporting projects through the Moldova Energy Security Activity (MESA) by providing assistance in removing existing barriers and implementing a pilot program including technical studies and legal advice. The Ministry of Energy said it will continue to communicate with and support representatives of the business community through technical advice, legislative support and identification of financing opportunities, thereby reinforcing its commitment to promoting energy communities and the transition to a sustainable energy sector. // 10.02.2025 - InfoMarket.
