In the 12-month period from September 2025 to August 2026, Moldova's electricity consumption dynamics are driven predominantly by its reliance on imports and fossil fuels. More than half of the electricity is sourced through net imports, accounting for a substantial 60.31% of the total consumption. Fossil energy, specifically gas, contributes to 28.65%, making it a significant part of Moldova's domestic energy generation. As for low-carbon energy, it comprises a smaller fraction of the energy mix at just over 11%. Wind energy generates 5.27%, solar energy provides 3.6%, and hydropower contributes a modest 1.56%. Clearly, Moldova's dependence on fossil fuels and imported electricity remains a crucial concern, particularly in light of environmental impacts and energy security.

Is Electricity Growing in Moldova?

The state of electricity growth in Moldova is concerning, as the consumption of electricity per person has significantly decreased from past levels. Presently, the per capita consumption stands at 1099 kWh, which is a dramatic decrease of 2545 kWh from the peak recorded in 1990. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation has seen a decline, with the latest production being 121 kWh per person, whereas the record high in 2023 was 199 kWh per person. This reduction of 78 kWh per person in low-carbon power is an alarming signal that Moldova's electricity growth is not keeping pace with its developmental needs, especially with the global shift towards clean energy sources.

Suggestions

To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Moldova can take cues from regions with successful clean energy implementations. Countries like France and Slovakia, which generate over 65% of their electricity from nuclear energy, showcase the potential of nuclear in establishing a reliable and low-carbon energy mix. Furthermore, Moldova could draw inspiration from states like Nevada and California, where solar energy contributes significantly to electricity production, at 35% and 31% respectively. Emphasizing the development of nuclear and solar infrastructure could place Moldova on a path to energy security, independence, and a cleaner environment while addressing its historical dependence on fossil and imported energy. Expanding these technologies can align Moldova with global trends of energy transition and reinforce its commitment to mitigating climate change impacts.

History

Throughout Moldova’s history, its low-carbon electricity generation has had numerous fluctuations, marked particularly by changes in hydropower output. In the early 1990s, hydro-electric generation saw slight increases and reductions that highlighted its variability. A similar pattern persisted through the late 2000s and early 2010s with negligible alterations until a minor uptick in 2017. Wind and solar energy emerged as part of the low-carbon landscape in 2022, contributing incrementally to Moldova's energy mix. While these gains in low-carbon electricity are steps in the right direction, the repeated reductions in hydroelectric production underscore a need for strategic development in other sustainable technologies like nuclear and solar to ensure a stable and reliable growth in clean energy generation going forward.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Sep 2025 – Aug 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.