The Moldovan state company Energocom signed a memorandum of understanding with Romania’s Nuclearelectrica. The document seeks to explore options for ensuring the delivery of energy produced by Nuclearelectrica from the new reactors that are to enter commercial operation, mainly Units 3 and 4 of the Cernavodă Power Plant, as well as to support the development of capacities and skills of human resources in the field of nuclear energy, announces the Moldovan Ministry of Energy.
Energy minister Victor Parlicov stated that the document will produce effects in the coming years, aligning with Moldova’s goal to achieve zero carbon emissions by 2050. “The Republic of Moldova does not have the capacity to develop its own nuclear generation projects, but can benefit from the special relationship with Romania and the fact that Romania intends to increase its nuclear energy output. Precisely in this context we are considering the possibility for Moldova to participate as a co-investor, in order to ensure safe, sustainable energy at competitive prices in the future”, said Victor Parlicov.
Romania’s energy minister Sebastian Burduja noted that Units 1 and 2 at Cernavodă are among the world’s top 5 reactors in terms of efficiency and safety. “I have a lot of affection for the Republic of Moldova, and the investment plans for Units 3 and 4 are one of the projects we can do together. It’s not that often that you see politicians sitting down and discussing joint projects for 10-15 years ahead”, said Sebastian Burduja.
For his part, Nuclearelectrica general director Cosmin Ghiță said that Units 3 and 4 of the Cernavodă Plant will be a pillar for the energy sector of both Romania and the Republic of Moldova, as well as for the countries’ decarbonization ambitions. “Together with Energocom, we can identify effective solutions in time with the common goal of achieving energy security, energy independence and consumer protection for Moldova. We are also proud to contribute to the development of human resources, because development and innovation are based on highly qualified personnel”, said Cosmin Ghiță.
Energocom bought electricity produced by Nuclearelectrica between October 2022 and April 2023. Globally, nuclear energy covers 10% of total electricity demand and is expected to increase to around 17% in IEA member states. In the European Union, nuclear power generates 50% of electricity without greenhouse gas emissions. According to a UNECE report, nuclear power has prevented 74 Gt of CO2 emissions over the past 50 years.
