Chisinau can reduce heat consumption by 40-60%, experts

Moldova has possibilities of reducing heat consumption, this being one of the most realistic solutions to the heating-related problems faced mainly by Chisinau, say representatives of the Center for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Resources, Info-Prim Neo reports. In a news conference on December 22, representatives of the NGO said it is now opportune to address this issue given that the local authorities and the heat suppliers are looking for solutions to the problems confronting Chisinau. The Center's head Ruslan Surugiu said Chisinau can now save 40-60% of the used heat. “In terms of money, this means more than 300 million lei, if taking the price of 540 lei per gigacalorie,” he said. Alexandru Melniciuc, program coordinator at the Center, said that besides a general change of attitude, amendments to the legislation are needed to allow implementing programs and financing projects designed to reduce consumption. “The consumption can be decreased by 40-60% by insulating the walls of the apartment buildings, replacing the windows, the heating equipment and systems,” Melniciuc said. The news conference forms part of a number of activities aimed at informing the people and the institutions involved about the new solutions proposed by the Center for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Resources. It recommends setting up individual automated thermal points, which ensure flexibility and the optimal consumption of heat in the centralized system.