Photo: Energy Minister Dorin Jungietu
The Minister of Energy Dorin Zhungietu told in an exclusive interview with Logos Press.
“The problem of network wear and tear is an accumulated systemic challenge that has been forming for decades. And today, for the first time, we are approaching it not point by point, but through a comprehensive program of modernization of the entire infrastructure,” Dorin Jungietu said.
A key step has already been taken: the transmission system operator Moldelectrica has elaborated and the National Energy Regulatory Agency has approved a 10-year network development plan, which envisages investments of about 8 billion lei.
“This is a transition to a systemic renewal of the backbone network. We are talking about the gradual replacement of the most worn-out lines and substations, especially those that have already exceeded their normative service life. Secondly, the expansion of the network to integrate renewable energy sources and new interconnectors with Romania and the EU. Third, about the implementation of modern technologies of grid management, including elements of digitalization and smart grid,” the minister explained.
He added that “no less importantly, we are also changing the approach to investments in distribution networks, including regulatory mechanisms. Distribution operators receive incentives to increase investments in modernization. For example, there is an increased allowable return if companies reinvest most of their profits in the network, and control over the implementation of investment programs is being strengthened”.
In parallel, the Ministry is working on several additional areas, such as attracting international financing from development partners to accelerate modernization, simplifying procedures for the implementation of infrastructure projects, synchronizing the development of networks with the growth of generation to avoid bottlenecks and developing energy storage systems that reduce the load on the network and increase its sustainability,” assured Dorin Jungietu.
