A World Bank team has travelled to Moldova between January 28 and February 1, 2019 to launch the Optimization of Chisinau District Heating System and Fuel Supply Options Study (the System Study), funded by the Energy Sector Management Assistance Program (ESMAP).

The key focus of the visit was to discuss with the Government, Termoelectrica SA and MEPIU and reach agreement on the following aspects: (i) Study`s timeline per component; (ii) Termoelectrica SA investment plans; (iii) Chisinau District Heating Sector Regulation; and (iv) other aspects, as appropriate.

The Bank team has carried out visits at CHP-1, CHP-2, HOB South and West, 6 suburban heating plants and the main pumping stations under the DHS. The World Bank, Termoelectrica SA and MEPIU representatives have actively collaborated so as to collect the primary data needed to develop the energy model of the DH system.

The kick-off meeting under the mission was held on February 01, 2019 at Termoelectrica SA premises. The draft version of the System Study is expected to be completed in March 2019 and the Final version of Study is envisaged to be completed by mid-May 2019 the latest.