Energy regulator approves 15.5-per cent increase in tariff for heating supplied in north Moldova

Chisinau, 17 March /MOLDPRES/ – The Board of Directors of the National Energy Regulatory Agency (ANRE) approved at a public hearing today, an increase of 15.5 per cent on tariff for heat supplied to consumers of North Thermal electric power station (CET). However, the provider’s application, which had requested an increase of 23 per cent, was satisfied partially.

The consumers in the north of Moldova will have to pay 1,220 lei per Gcal, compared to current payment of 1056 lei. The organization initially demanded a price in the amount of 1221 lei, but in today public session CET NORD director, Ion Galagan, evoked a much higher figure of 1299 lei, accordingly.

"After the last adjustment in 2011, the fuel prices, costs of materials, spare parts needed for repairs, maintenance and service maintenance and other expenses have increased. In the recent five years costs have increased by 110 million lei," said Ion Galagan. According to him, sales revenues "do not cover the minimum cost necessary for energy production, stable supply of consumers and efficient use of production capacity."

The enterprise accumulated in 2012 – 2016 losses amounting to 226 million lei, including due to reduction of consumption for the fund of higher temperatures.

The new tariff will come into force after the publication of ANRE’s decision in "Monitorul Oficial" (Official Monitor), but it will be used from the next season.

(Reporter V. Bercu, editor L. Alcaza)