Moldova Hikes Gas Tariffs by 41% Amid European Price Surge
Moldova's energy regulator ANRE has approved a 41% increase in household natural gas tariffs, effective September 1. The hike is due to rising European procurement costs and winter restocking demands.
Consumers will now pay €1.01 (20.30 MDL) per cubic meter, up from the previous rate of €0.72 (14.42 MDL). This increase is part of an urgent petition from state-owned energy trader Energocom, which sought a higher tariff to cover operational costs.
The regulator cited heightened volatility on European spot exchanges and intensified global competition for liquefied natural gas (LNG) as reasons for the hike. To mitigate the impact on vulnerable households, the government will maintain its targeted heating compensation program funded through the national budget.