Energocom Seeks Tariff Hike in Moldova Amid Rising Gas Prices

Moldova's state-owned energy supplier Energocom is facing increased costs for natural gas imports due to rising global prices, prompting the company to request a tariff adjustment. The move comes as the country heads into its winter heating season and has sparked concerns about the potential impact on consumers.

Eugeniu Buzatu, acting director of Energocom, confirmed that the company has submitted updated base cost documents to the National Agency for Energy Regulation (ANRE), initiating a regulatory review process that will determine the final price paid by households and commercial entities across the nation. The purchase price for October deliveries has risen significantly compared to the benchmarks used when the current tariffs were established earlier in the year, according to Buzatu.

The submission of base cost documents to ANRE triggers a rigorous evaluation period during which the regulator will audit Energocom's procurement contracts, operational expenses, and distribution losses to verify the legitimacy of the requested rate hike. ANRE is tasked with balancing the financial health of the energy sector against the purchasing power of the population.

Consumer advocacy groups have expressed concern over the potential impact of the adjustment, warning that higher gas bills will inevitably lead to increased tariffs for district heating services. In response, government officials have indicated that they are preparing targeted social protection measures, including expanded compensation funds for low-income households and vulnerable pensioners.