Tariffs for natural gas distribution services increased several times over
The adopted decisions concern the activities of 17 operators of natural gas distribution systems in the Republic of Moldova and were adopted in accordance with the provisions of Law No. 108/2016 on natural gas and tariff methodology.
The approval of regulated revenues is a necessary step for the establishment of uniform tariffs for natural gas distribution services. Regulated revenues reflect the justified costs of distribution system operators for the operation, maintenance and development of distribution networks, as well as other costs necessary to ensure stable and reliable operation of the natural gas system.
In determining these revenues, ANRE analyzed several relevant factors, including the adjustment of the base costs to the projected economic trends for 2026, the expansion of the distribution networks, the increase in the number of consumption points served, the volume of natural gas distributed, as well as costs related to technological consumption and losses of natural gas in the networks.
Based on the approved regulated revenues, ANRE’s Board of Directors established unified tariffs for natural gas distribution services. The introduction of this mechanism is aimed at ensuring fair treatment of all consumers by applying the same tariff for the same service, regardless of the region where they are connected to the distribution networks. Thus, unified tariffs for natural gas distribution services on installations:
– 395 lei/1000 m³ for high pressure networks;
– 1463 lei/1000 m³ for medium pressure networks;
– 4974 lei/1000 m³ for low pressure networks.
(Prices are quoted without VAT).
It should be noted that the unified tariffs replaced the differentiated tariffs applied for each supplier. They were much lower.
For example, for Chișinău-gaz, at the beginning of 2025, the following differentiated tariffs depending on network pressure were in force, approved by ANRE:
– high pressure: 74 lei/1000 m³;
– medium pressure: 511 lei/1000 m³;
-low pressure: 2,720 lei/1000 m³.
(Prices without VAT).
ANRE does not explain the reason for this price hike.
The unified tariffs for distribution services represent only one component of the final price of natural gas, along with the cost of natural gas itself and other services included in the supply chain. At the same time, the approval of these tariffs is also important in the context of the liberalization of the natural gas market, the agency says.
Starting April 1, 2026, large non-household consumers whose annual consumption exceeds 100,000 m³ will purchase natural gas on the competitive market under contracts concluded through direct negotiations with suppliers or through a trading platform. Establishing unified tariffs for natural gas distribution services ensures predictability for both consumers and suppliers in the contracting process. By approving unified tariffs for natural gas distribution services, ANRE aims to ensure a fair and transparent tariff system, guaranteeing equal treatment of all consumers and clear and predictable application of regulatory rules on the natural gas market.
The decisions adopted will be published on the official website of the Agency.
