The Iasi-Ungheni gas pipeline can become an alternative source for supplying Moldova with natural gas only when a main of the internal gas transportation system - Ungheni-Chisinau or Ungheni-Drochia – is built. But investments of US$50 million are needed for the purpose. A compressor station is also needed in the Romanian district Onesti, which is to be constructed at a cost of US$26 million. The assessments were included in a study made by Institute for Development and Social Initiative “Viitorul”, IPN reports.
One of the authors Sergiu Aparatu said the Ungheni-Balti gas pipe is of a low capacity and will be unable to transport 1.5 billion cubic meters of gas annually, which is the capacity of the new gas pipeline. The fact that the gas transportation networks belong to Moldovagaz can be a problem. This company’s investment policy is agreed by the majority shareholder Gazprom, which is not interested in developing gas mains towards the West.
“In order to ensure the sustainable development of the natural gas sector, there should be implemented the Third Energy Package, while the gas transportation networks should be transferred under state administration. A natural monopole should be created on the gas transportation market,” said Sergiu Aparatu.
The study recommends strengthening the dialogue in the energy sector with Russia as in the future the Russian gas can be transported to the Balkans without crossing Ukraine and Moldova.
As to the ‘energy revolution’, which can be caused by the use of shale gas, study author Marian Cepoi said Moldova does not have reserves of such a gas, but even if it has them, it should not use them given the consequences for the environment. It can yet negotiate with Ukraine and Romania and sign contracts so that it has a guarantee when the shale gas starts to be used.
Attending the launch of the study, MP Veaceslav Ionita, who heads the parliamentary commission on economy, budget and finance, said the costs of all the alternatives for diversifying the gas supply sources should be assessed and a dialogue should be initiated with the countries and relevant international projects.
