Moldova opens its gas market to large consumers, anchoring energy security in integration

Gas market liberalisation advances as 55% of Moldova’s gas demand transitions to the free market, supported by an EU-oriented energy strategy.

Moldova reached a major milestone on 1 April 2026, opening its gas market for large non-household consumers, which account for 55% of national demand. These consumers—including power and heating utilities, industrial operators, and commercial users—are now required to procure gas at fully market-based prices.  As of 31 March 2026, 95% of eligible large consumers had switched to the free market—representing 99% of the gas volume in the liberalised segment. The remaining 5% have temporarily disconnected due to seasonal consumption and are expected to return to contracting on the free market later.  

The move is particularly significant for an Energy Community Contracting Party heavily reliant on imported natural gas for electricity and heat, leaving it exposed to single-supplier risks. Gas market liberalisation is a fundamental reform required to move away from the danger of single-supplier dependencies by preparing for future integration with the EU internal energy market. It is a move expected to significantly strengthen both long-term gas market resilience and the larger economies that the gas market underpins. 

“In geopolitically turbulent times, it is worth remembering that energy market integration is the only real way forward,” said Artur Lorkowski, Director of the Energy Community Secretariat. “This move will drive investment, competition, and the diversified supply that energy security and affordability depend on.” 

 Gas market opening for the rest of Moldova's consumers will progress gradually. The phase-out of regulated prices will be g completed for medium non-household consumers by April 2027. At the same time, households, small businesses and essential service providers will still be able to choose between regulated supply and market-based contracts, helping ensure a smooth and consumer-focused transition.   

Moldova’s regulator ANRE, will oversee the liberalisation process, while the Energy Community Secretariat remains committed to supporting implementation, monitoring market performance to ensure compliance with EU rules and effective competition.