EU NEIGHBOURS. The Ungheni–Chisinau gas pipeline is expected to be operational soon. The 120 km pipeline will allow Moldova, which is almost 90% dependant on energy imports, to become energy independent and ensure the security of gas supplies.
The Ungheni–Chisinau gas pipeline will connect the gas transmission systems of Romania and the Republic of Moldova by linking Chisinau with the interconnector between the eastern Romanian city Iasi and Ungheni, a Moldovan town on the Romanian border.
The construction of the €90 million pipeline has been supported by a €38 million loan from the European Investment Bank and an equity investment from Eurotransgaz, the company operating the Romanian natural gas transmission system. Additionally, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has invested €20 million in Vestmoldtransgaz, the gas transmission company operating the newly built Ungheni–Chisinau gas pipeline.
EBRD Vice President Alain Pilloux commented: “This connection will enhance Moldova’s energy security by diversifying its gas supply sources, a prerequisite for the country’s successful development. The project also helps integrate Moldova into future major gas infrastructure projects such as the Trans Adriatic Pipeline and gas sources from central European hubs, and links it with Black Sea gas deposits.”
Read also
Photo: EBRD
