The signing of the Energy Community Treaty will offer Moldova the possibility to attract more investment in the energy system. Further, Moldova could connect to European energy networks and diversify its energy sources, stated Deputy Minister of Economy Ilarion Popa. Among energy-related plans for 2011, Popa mentioned the finalization of the Falciu-Gotesti overhead power transmission line of 110kW. A feasibility study for another line, between Balti and Suceava, has been developed and there are guarantees from partners concerning funding for this project. Also in 2011, works will begin on building the Ungheni-Iasi gas main. The project is co-financed by the Romania-Moldova-Ukraine Cross-Border Operations Program, but it still needs additional funding. So far, €3 million has been allotted to Moldova and €4 million to Romania. The overall cost is estimated at €20 million. “We’ll present this project to donors and we hope to obtain the necessary funds”, the Deputy Minister of Economy Ilarion Popa mentioned. The official added that while improving the energy infrastructure, Moldova will look for other electricity providers. Increasing energy efficiency will be a priority. The Energy Efficiency Agency (EEA) and the EE Fund are set to begin their activity. The Fund will provide enterprises with various schemes of financing energy efficiency projects and will encourage projects of using alternative energy sources. The draft Budget for 2011 allots 25 million lei for the activity of the EEA and of the Energy Efficiency Fund. The financial means will be supplemented by investments from international institutions and private investors. The Energy Community Treaty was signed in 2005 and aims at establishing a common regulatory framework for energy markets in the EU and South-East Europe countries. Moldova has been an observer within the organization since November 2006 and signed the Treaty in March, 2011.