The decision was made in January by the Commission on Innovative Testbeds, the Department of Energy informs.
Why it is necessary
The aim of the project is to test an innovative technological solution for real-time monitoring of low-voltage distribution networks, a key segment of the energy infrastructure that is currently not systematically monitored at this level of detail.
The proposed solution enables the continuous collection and analysis of power quality parameters such as voltage, frequency and phase imbalances, as well as the detection of losses and other operational faults.
The project will be implemented in a controlled manner within the Energy Sandbox, providing authorities with an opportunity to assess, under real operating conditions, the impact of using advanced digital technologies on the operation of distribution networks.
The results obtained will contribute to the development and adaptation of the regulatory framework, especially with regard to the digitalization of power grids, power quality monitoring and the use of data in operational processes.
In the future, the possibility of implementing this technology in the actual practice of distribution networks in Moldova is being considered.
What is the Energy Sandbox?
Moldova was the first country in Central and Eastern Europe to implement a regulatory sandbox framework to stimulate innovation in the energy sector. The mechanism became operational after the government approved the rules for the operation of innovation test beds in the energy sector on February 12, 2025.
Thus, innovators wishing to test advanced solutions in the energy sector can apply on a special web platform www.sandbox.energie.gov.md.
Areas with high potential for testing in Moldova, for which applicants are encouraged to apply for sandbox approval, include:
– Collective self-consumption and energy communities;
– electromobility;
– network flexibility and balancing services;
– integration of renewable energy sources;
– production of biogas and biomethane;
– smart grids or advanced energy-saving technologies for buildings.
The Innovation Testbed will be authorized for a period of up to seven years, with the possibility of a reasonable extension for up to five more years.
The implementation of projects will be monitored by the Commission for Innovation Testbeds in Energy Regulation, subordinate to the government.
The Energy Sandbox mechanism stimulates innovation in the energy sector by creating a controlled and flexible environment for testing and developing new technologies, thereby facilitating the transition to renewable energy for a sustainable future.
The mechanism was developed by the Ministry of Energy with support from UNDP Moldova and with financial support from Denmark, Luxembourg, the Republic of Korea and Sweden.
