A new call for the selection and support of renewable energy communities was launched today, September 28, in Ialoveni. State Secretary of the Ministry of Energy Carolina Novac attended the information session dedicated to the launch of the call. The event aimed to present funding opportunities, the legal framework applicable to energy communities, and the participation requirements.

“It is important that people can directly participate in the production and use of energy from renewable sources. Energy communities provide this opportunity while also creating solutions tailored to local needs. Through the legal framework we are developing and such funding opportunities, we want to see more initiatives emerging from local communities,” said Carolina Novac, State Secretary of the Ministry of Energy.

The call was launched by UNDP Moldova with financial support from the Government of Italy and has a total budget of USD 450,000. Each selected community will receive support ranging from USD 50,000 to USD 100,000, depending on the proposed technical solution and the community’s needs.

To apply, applicants must form an initiative group comprising at least two potential members, provide a co-financing contribution of at least 20% of the project value, and identify a site for the installation of the equipment, with ownership or usage rights for at least 10 years.

Applications can be submitted until October 28, 2026, and the selection process will be completed by the end of the year. The call is managed by Green City Lab Moldova, with all details available on Green City Lab Moldova. Initiatives led by women or in which women have a clear and active role will be given priority.

The Ministry of Energy is involved in developing the framework necessary for the operation of energy communities. Recently, the Government approved a draft law introducing a dedicated legal form for these communities and facilitating the association of citizens, local public authorities and businesses for the joint production, consumption, storage and management of energy. The document was developed by the Ministry of Energy with the support of Sweden, Norway, Italy and UNDP.

During the session, participants were presented with the energy community concept, the applicable legal framework, the Applicant’s Guide and the application package.