The Ministry of Energy’s statement notes that S.A. ‘Moldovagaz’ has submitted a preliminary model and an action plan for consolidating processes across the group’s 12 natural gas distribution companies. Logos Press reported on the preparation of these documents back in July.
The proposal is intended to reduce administrative costs and improve the efficiency of the operators; however, the final parameters of the model and its impact on tariffs are yet to be assessed by ANRE.
In particular, the regulator must assess the licensing conditions, the justification for costs, the projected savings, the potential impact on tariffs and the continuity of the gas distribution service.
At the same time, ANRE has initiated a procedure to amend Methodology No. 443/2020, which is intended to establish a mechanism for optimising costs and their inclusion in tariffs, as provided for by the new legislative amendments.
The proposed corporate and asset-related changes will be considered and, where necessary, approved by the competent authorities in accordance with the law and corporate documents.
Safety requirements are set to be reviewed
Another area of focus will be the updating of Government Decree No. 552/2017, which sets out the minimum safety requirements for the operation of natural gas distribution systems, as noted in the Ministry of Energy’s statement.
Moldovagaz is preparing relevant proposals and is collaborating on this matter with gas distribution system operators from Romania. Technical consultations and an exchange of expertise are planned to study relevant European practices.
The proposed changes are intended to modernise safety requirements and make them more proportionate, without compromising operational safety. At the same time, the aim is to remove outdated, excessive or duplicative obligations.
According to the Ministry of Energy’s assessment, such measures could help reduce operational, maintenance and inspection costs for gas distribution networks and thereby ease the pressure on service costs.
However, the specific extent of potential savings and their impact on tariffs have not yet been determined. These figures are to be calculated using an economic model and reviewed by ANRE in accordance with the current tariff methodology.
The stated aim of the reforms is to improve cost efficiency and reduce pressure on tariffs without compromising the continuity, safety and quality of the natural gas distribution service.
This story was translated with the assistance of artificial intelligence.The translation was also reviewed by the Logos Press editorial team.
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