2025 Energy Crisis and Its Impact on Transnistria – A Strategic Challenge for Moldova

Since early 2025, the breakaway region of Transnistria has been plunged into an unprecedented energy crisis. The halt of Russian gas deliveries—following a transit agreement lapse through Ukraine—has left homes and industries without heating, hot water, and reliable electricity. This crisis affects not only local residents but also Moldova’s right bank. Stirinoi.com presents an article exploring the crisis, its causes, effects, expert opinions, and broader consequences.

On January 1, 2025, Ukraine suspended the transit of Russian gas, triggering the energy crisis in Transnistria . Gazprom rejected alternatives like Trans-Balkan and TurkStream, leaving the region without its primary energy source .

Tiraspol declared an economic state of emergency, instituting rolling blackouts for 4–8 hours daily . Inhabitants resorted to wood stoves and electric heaters, while authorities stockpiled 6,000 m³ of firewood for vulnerable populations .

Tragically, three people died from carbon monoxide poisoning and hypothermia cases soared . Major factories, schools, and institutions ceased operations. The Rîbnița metal plant and bakery shut down, affecting 2,000 workers .

Moldova responded by delivering generators, tablets for distant learning, and tapping into the EU Civil Protection Mechanism—but Tiraspol refused help .

Economically, Moldova ramped up energy imports from Romania and the EU. Though essential, these imports are significantly more expensive .

Interesting Facts

• The Cuciurgan power station once generated ~75% of Moldova’s electricity, fueled by free Russian gas .

• Some crypto-mining operations were shut down to conserve power .

• The EU approved an emergency €30 million aid package for gas deliveries to Transnistria .

• Ukraine offered coal to fuel MGRES, coordinated by Presidents Zelensky and Sandu .

• Analyst Alexandru Slusari called the crisis a geopolitical instrument designed to destabilize Moldova’s pro-Western government .

Opinions

• Chisinau authorities accuse Moscow of using energy as a geopolitical weapon to influence elections and destabilize Moldova .

• Tiraspol officials point to Moldova’s refusal to meet Gazprom’s terms, claiming stability requires a stable and predictable gas supply .

• Economic analysts view the EU intervention—generators, funds, and interconnection—as a strategic boost to regional energy resilience .

• Alexandru Slusari, political expert, warns that while addressing humanitarian needs, authorities must guard against broader instability .

Conclusion

The Transnistrian energy crisis, triggered by halted Russian gas deliveries and Ukraine’s transit cut, has evolved into a humanitarian, economic, and political emergency.