Consumption of gas decreased in Moldova in 2012

In 2012, Moldova purchased over 1.095 billion cubic meters of Russian gas and supplied to consumers 989.6 million cubic meters of gas. Thus, Moldova incurred technological and commercial losses of 106 million cubic meters of gas.

According to the National Energy Regulatory Agency, the consumption of gas in the republic decreased 4.9%, against 2010. This can be explained by the high tariffs that are unaffordable for citizens in rural areas, who often renounce to gas heating in order to save money.  

The gas consumption decreased among all the categories of consumers: the population – 4.8%, to 298.9 million cubic meters, economic agents – 11.5%, to 211.5 million cubic meters, budgetary institutions – 4.5%, to 50.3 million, and the energy sector – 0.5%, to 428.9 million cubic meters.

The collection of payments increased 9.6% and exceeded 5.637 billion lei (US$469.7 million). Yet, the payment rates reduced from 96.6% to 94.9%. This led to a decreased of Moldovagaz payments to Gazprom – from 90.4% to 81.9%, although the collected payments exceed about 904 million lei (US$75.3 million) the purchase price of the Russian gas.

Adapted from:Infotag