Renewable energy - energy obtained through the utilization of non-fossil renewable sources, namely wind energy, solar energy, aerothermal energy, geothermal energy, hydrothermal energy, ocean energy, hydroelectric power, biomass, biogas, landfill gas, and gas from wastewater treatment plants.
The Republic of Moldova aims to reach a 27% share of renewable energy consumption in the electricity mix by 2030. This objective is supported by policy documents such as the Energy Strategy until 2050 project, the National Integrated Plan for Energy and Climate, as well as the amendment of Law No. 10/2016 on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources (the RES Law).
By encouraging investments in renewable sources, the Republic of Moldova could reduce dependence on imported energy resources while simultaneously increasing the consumption of domestic energy resources. The most promising renewable energy sources are solar energy, wind energy, and hydroenergy.
Solar energy: The Republic of Moldova has a high potential for harnessing solar energy due to its geographical position and climatic conditions. The average annual solar energy potential is estimated at 1200-1400 kWh/m2, which enables the development of large-scale solar energy production capacity. Solar photovoltaic energy could provide up to 4.5 GW of capacity.
Wind energy: Almost the entire country has favorable locations for wind energy investments. At a height of 100 m, the surface area of the territory with wind speeds between 5-8 m/s is approximately 33,240 km2, representing 98.7% of the country's territory. The potential for competitive wind energy production in terms of costs could reach up to 21 GW.
Hydroenergy: The Republic of Moldova has the Costești-Stânca hydropower plant, and the amount of electricity produced contributes to reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The hydroenergy potential in Moldova includes the possibility of building new hydropower plants. It is estimated that pumped storage hydroelectric power plants with a capacity of up to 100 MW could be developed.
Biomass: The Republic of Moldova has a significant biomass potential, mainly used traditionally as firewood and agricultural waste. Investments in power plants using biomass could bring considerable benefits. It is estimated that by 2030, around 400 MW of biogas power plants could be installed, using agricultural, animal, industrial, and household waste.