The decision establishes a phased transition of certain categories of consumers to natural gas supplies at market prices, gradually abolishing the regulated regime for large and medium-sized non-domestic consumers.
According to ANRE, the liberalization of the natural gas market is a necessary measure to create a competitive and transparent energy sector, as well as a prerequisite for integration into the regional and European energy market.
The implementation of the liberalization calendar will bring a number of benefits to consumers, the Agency believes: access to competitive prices, possibility to choose a supplier according to commercial conditions and quality of service, increase in the efficiency of services, etc.
According to the decision, from April 1, 2026, large non-domestic consumers with usage of more than 100,000 m3/year will purchase natural gas only at negotiated prices. Medium-sized non-domestic consumers using between 10,000 and 100,000 m3/year will switch to the free market as of April 1, 2027.
Domestic consumers, small non-domestic consumers, as well as institutions and enterprises providing basic social services (health, social assistance, emergency, security, education or public administration) will continue to use services at regulated prices, but with the right to choose the free market.
ANRE believes that the approved calendar will contribute to the reduction of external energy dependence, the development of a more sustainable internal market and the full integration of Moldova into the European energy market.
