Transelectrica has announced discussions with local authorities in Botoșani regarding the status of strategic investments aimed at developing energy infrastructure in the northern part of the Moldova region. These projects include the 400 kV overhead power line (OHL) between Suceava and Bălți—specifically the section located within Romanian territory—and the Botoșani electrical transformer substation. With preliminary stages completed and the process for obtaining a construction permit now underway, work on the 400 kV Suceava–Bălți overhead line (within Romania) could begin no later than early 2027.
Transelectrica continues its efforts to develop energy infrastructure in northern Moldova. In this context, the Chairman of the Directorate, Ștefăniță Munteanu, met in Botoșani with the President of the County Council, Valeriu Iftime, and his team, as well as with representatives from environmental authorities, the Botoșani Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and DELGAZ GRID SA. Representing Transelectrica were Dorinel Vladu (Director of the Investment Division), Dragoș Muntenașu (Project Manager), Virgiliu Ivan (Director of the National Power Dispatch Center), and representatives from the Bacău Territorial Transmission Branch—namely George Ababei (Director), Marius Danciu (Deputy Director), and Cristian Chiriac (Technical Director). The discussions focused on the preparation status of two major projects for the regional energy system: the 400 kV overhead power line (OHL) between Suceava and Bălți—specifically the section within Romanian territory—and the 400/110 kV Botoșani Sud electrical substation. The investment is in an advanced stage of preparation, and continued collaboration with the relevant authorities and institutions is crucial for completing the phases preceding actual construction.
The 400 kV Suceava–Bălți OHL is a strategic project aimed at strengthening Romania’s electricity transmission infrastructure and developing regional interconnections. This investment will link the power systems of Romania and the Republic of Moldova, bolster the Republic of Moldova’s integration into the European ENTSO-E network, and contribute to closing the 400 kV national ring of the electricity transmission grid.
Within Romanian territory, the line will span 93.3 kilometers and pass through 17 administrative-territorial units—six in Suceava County and 11 in Botoșani County.
The investment is valued at 133.4 million lei (excluding VAT). The design and construction contract was signed on March 11, 2025, with the consortium comprising Electromontaj SA and ELM Electromontaj Cluj SA, with Electromontaj SA serving as the lead partner. The execution period is 36 months, determined in accordance with contractual provisions and the project’s implementation stages.
Through Government Decision no. Under [Decision/Act] 271 of April 23, 2026, the project was declared to be of national importance; the site location has been approved, and the expropriation procedure has been initiated. In the coming period, the continuation of expropriation procedures and the acquisition of building permits will pave the way for the commencement of construction, currently estimated to begin no later than early 2027.
Botoșani Sud Electrical Substation: A First for the County
The Botoșani Sud 400/110 kV transformer substation—an infrastructure project—will be developed by tapping into the 400 kV Suceava–Bălți power line and will include a 110 kV switching station in the Bălușeni area.
The Botoșani Sud substation will be the first 400/110 kV transformer substation in Botoșani County. It will facilitate the transfer of electricity from the Transmission Grid to the 110 kV distribution network, thereby strengthening the power supply for the region.
By integrating this new infrastructure into the power grid, the regional energy system will gain a more robust configuration, offering additional capacity for both power supply and future development.
Benefits for the local community and the region’s economic development
The construction of the 400 kV overhead power line (OHL) between Suceava and Bălți, along with the 400/110 kV Botoșani Sud electrical substation, will enhance the operational reliability of the power grid in the Suceava – Botoșani – Neamț area and improve voltage levels, particularly during periods of high demand.
Furthermore, this new infrastructure will facilitate the connection of new consumers and power generation plants utilizing renewable energy sources, including solar (photovoltaic) and wind power. The projects will also support the reconfiguration of the local 110 kV network and diversify electricity supply routes for localities in the northern part of the Moldova region.
By expanding grid capacity and flexibility, these investments lay the groundwork for attracting new economic ventures and fostering regional development.
Transelectrica extends its gratitude to local authorities and partners for their collaboration and involvement in the execution of these projects. The company remains committed to ongoing dialogue with the institutions and communities located along the project routes, ensuring the coordination of all stages necessary for their implementation.