Strășeni–Gutinaș Power Line: A New Milestone for Moldova’s Energy Security

The construction of the Strășeni–Gutinaș overhead power line, stretching 190 km, marks a strategic breakthrough for the Republic of Moldova. The new line will directly connect Moldova’s power system to Romania and the European network, reducing reliance on the existing Isaccea–Vulcănești–Chișinău line, which partially passes through Ukraine and remains exposed to potential military risks.

Supported by USD 130 million in financing from the United States and the EU, the project aims not only to ensure greater reliability of supply but also to create the basis for better tariffs for consumers by lowering transmission losses and reducing transport costs.

According to experts, the new connection will open broader opportunities for electricity trade—both imports and exports—and integrate Moldova’s market with the Romanian and European systems. This increases investment attractiveness and will help mobilize private capital for new domestic generation capacities.

Prime Minister Dorin Recean emphasized that the project proves the effectiveness of international partnerships, while President Maia Sandu highlighted its strategic importance for Moldova’s long-term energy independence.

IDR Comment

The Institute of Danube Research notes that the Strășeni–Gutinaș project:

strengthens regional energy security in the Danube–Black Sea area;

opens new opportunities for coordination with Ukraine, which is also developing its Danube infrastructure and seeking full synchronization with European power networks;

demonstrates how strategic investments by the EU and the U.S. can neutralize political and energy pressure from Russia.

Conclusion: The Strășeni–Gutinaș line is not only an energy project but also a geopolitical one, anchoring Moldova firmly within the European energy space and creating new conditions for joint development across the Danube macro-region.