The Russian invasion of Ukraine and its weaponization of energy supply, which precipitated the global energy crisis, has impacted Eastern European countries the worst. Moldova has been among the most vulnerable and worst affected states as it lacks sufficient local energy resources and depends on the import of fossil fuels and electricity, largely from Russia. The low levels of energy security have resulted in extreme price volatility, insufficient supply, and widespread energy poverty.

Moldova has actively pursued the diversification of electricity and natural gas supply by bringing in alternative deliveries from Romania, Ukraine and the LNG terminals on the Aegean coast.  However, there is still much to be done by improving energy efficiency in the residential sector. Moldova should also accelerate the EU integration process by focusing on key anti-corruption measures for limiting the political interference in the management of state-owned energy companies and increasing the financial transparency of regulatory decisions.

This analysis aims at elaborating the nexus between the Russian economic influence and the energy security challenges facing Moldova. The assessment identifies targeted recommendations to accelerate the country’s full energy market diversification, the improvement of the governance of state-owned energy companies and a closer policy alignment with the EU energy and climate objectives.