Strășeni–Gutinaș power line project and energy system modernization discussed in Washington

The acceleration of the construction of the 400 kV Strășeni–Gutinaș overhead power line and the continued modernization of the National Power System were among the main topics discussed in Washington by Minister of Energy Dorin Junghietu during meetings with officials of the U.S. Department of State.

According to the Ministry of Energy, during the visit the minister met with Christopher Smith, Deputy Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs, as well as with Kevin Covert, Director for Eastern European Affairs.

The discussions focused on the priorities of bilateral cooperation in the energy sector, U.S. support for reforms in the sector, the modernization of energy infrastructure, and attracting American private capital investment in national and regional projects. Junghietu highlighted the importance of strengthening Moldova–U.S. strategic partnership in the regional energy security.

Christopher Smith reconfirmed U.S. support for the Republic of Moldova in strengthening energy security and implementing advanced solutions, including in the area of cybersecurity.

A central topic on the agenda was the construction of the 400 kV Strășeni–Gutinaș overhead power line, a project considered strategic for the full interconnection of the Republic of Moldova’s energy system with the European market. With a total length of approximately 190 kilometers, about 70 km of which are on the territory of the Republic of Moldova and 120 km on the territory of Romania, this will become the third 400 kV power line between the two states.

The project is fully financed by the United States through a grant worth 130 million dollars and aims to increase the Republic of Moldova’s energy independence, diversify supply routes, and enhance the reliability of the power system. During the visit, the Minister of Energy also held a meeting with representatives of the Office of Foreign Assets Control within the U.S. Treasury, where aspects related to the process of returning to state ownership the aviation fuel supply assets at Chisinau International Airport “Eugen Doga” were discussed.

OFAC representatives presented the ongoing technical stages regarding the assessment and approval of negotiations and transactions for the takeover of the assets of Lukoil International GmbH.

The minister reiterated the Moldovan Government commitment to maintain control over the airport asset, while emphasizing its openness to attracting experienced private operators, in line with European practices, where aircraft refueling services are provided by at least two operators.

Junghietu paid a working visit to the United States of America on 23 - 25 February to participate in the Transatlantic Gas Security Summit. The visit took place at the invitation of Secretary of Energy Chris Wright and Doug Burgum, Secretary of the Interior.