The merger between SA “Termocom” and the thermoelectric plants CET-1 and CET-2 will lead to the creation of a mega-monopole in the thermoelectric sector, considers the head of the Center for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy “Pro Energy” Ruslan Surugiu.

In a news conference at IPN, Ruslan Surugiu said that by this merger, they will solve only the problem of Chisinau heat supplier’s debts to the CETs, not yet of the debts of CET-1 and CET-2 to Moldovagaz, which the new company will have to pay. Thus, the risk of liquidation is transferred from “Termocom” to the new entity.

Ruslan Surugiu said a risky situation for Moldova is created as the new energy company can be bought by Moldovagaz or through its agency at a low price.

The head of “Pro Energy” Center also said that the sum of US$20 million that the World Bank will provide in the form of investments for repairing the damaged networks and for setting up individual heating units is not sufficient. Investments of US$30 million are needed for the purpose. Furthermore, the heat charges may rise as the money offered by the World Bank need to be paid back.

According to Ruslan Surugiu, the thermoelectric sector of Moldova witnessed a similar situation at the end of the 1990s, when the heat transportation and distribution companies accumulated large debts. But there was adopted a law that provided for the transfer of all companies’ debts to another company - SA “Moldtranselectro”. This company managed the debts and the companies working in the thermoelectric sector were able to develop. The head of “Pro Energy” Center considers the same approach can be adopted in the case of “Termocom”.