Norway backs Moldova energy aid as winter heating costs loom
Norway has pledged to support Moldova in cushioning its energy vulnerability by backing the government’s winter compensation program, following talks between prime ministers Vasile Tofan and Jonas Gahr Støre in New York.
The bilateral meeting on September 23 focused on securing external funding to shield households from soaring energy tariffs. Prime Minister Tofan conveyed gratitude for Oslo’s ongoing financial assistance, emphasizing that international partnerships remain vital as geopolitical tensions and market volatility continue to test national resilience.
“Energy prices are exerting immense pressure, and Russia is seeking to exploit this situation through manipulative messaging and propaganda,” said Prime Minister Tofan. “A difficult winter lies ahead, but the government will provide compensations, and this support makes a tangible difference for our people.”
Strategic partnership and diplomatic footprint
The Norwegian delegation confirmed its commitment to deepen cooperation in strategic sectors, bolstering Moldova’s energy security and regional resilience. Both leaders also welcomed the opening of a resident Norwegian embassy in Chisinau, a landmark move set to streamline bilateral diplomacy and economic collaboration.
Discussions also addressed Norway’s financial backing for the Model Schools Network, an infrastructure initiative overseen by the Ministry of Education and Research. Norwegian officials reaffirmed their commitment to supporting modern educational standards and school renovations across Moldova.
Tightening the heating aid safety net
The high-level talks follow statements by President Maia Sandu after a Supreme Security Council meeting on September 21, in which she confirmed that the government is seeking additional external grants to fund heating aid. The final volume of financial relief will depend on regional energy market fluctuations.
Labor and Social Protection Minister Natalia Plugaru stated that the government is finalizing the support framework for the 2026–2027 heating season. Authorities aim to cover a caseload comparable to last winter, when more than 620,000 households received state aid.
To keep the program fiscally viable, oversight will be tightened. State agencies will cross-reference applicant data across 12 institutional databases, auditing declared incomes, real estate, bank accounts, and vehicle ownership to prevent fraud.
During the previous cold season, the compensation initiative cost approximately €124.5 million (approx. 2.4 billion MDL) over five months, funded entirely through the state budget. The average monthly subsidy stood at 750 MDL (approx. €39), with maximum monthly caps set at 800 MDL (approx. €41) for solid fuels and 1,000 MDL (approx. €52) for gas and district heating.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
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