Moldovan government approves draft meant to strengthen energy regulatory authority's independence

Chisinau, 25 May /MOLDPRES/ - The cabinet of ministers, at a today’s meeting, approved a new draft law on energy. The document is meant to strengthen the independence of the National Energy Regulatory Agency (ANRE), at the same time, setting more transparent norms of the institution’s work, the government’s communication and media relations department has reported.    

The document establishes the procedure of application by ANRE of financial sanctions for infringements recorded, as well as the norms of ensuring the right of the energy enterprises to protect themselves and avoid eventual abuses on behalf of the regulatory body.  

The law on energy in the new version amends also the procedure of appointing the directors of the administrative board. According to the new provisions, they will be appointed based on a public and transparent contest, organised by the parliament, and selected in line with principles of professionalism. Also, the Agency’s budget will be approved by the administrative board, which will subsequently inform the parliament on the decision taken and will subject it to the control on behalf of the Court of Accounts.  

The new legislative act ensures the needed legal framework for the organisation, regulation and efficient work of the energy sectors and creates optimum conditions for Moldova’s supply with quality energy resources.  

The sectors of electric energy, natural gas, thermal energy and oil products get under action of the law on energy. 

The document is to be submitted to parliament for consideration and adoption.  

(Editor L. Alcaza)