Capitolul 53. Explorarea vulnerabilității energetice în Republica Moldova: tangența cu bunăstarea gospodăriilor

Abstract

The energy vulnerability of Moldova’s population has been increasing year by year since November 2021, when energy prices began to rise periodically. The increase in the price of gas led to a rise in the cost of electricity and heat. As a result, the energy poverty of the population increased, and the standard of living decreased. This study examines the conceptual distinction between energy poverty and vulnerability, investigates the structural causes of Moldova’s energy vulnerability, and analyzes the mechanisms established by the government to mitigate the consequences of the energy crisis. The study uses two methodologies: statistical analysis and critical policy assessment. The goals of this study are to analyze the socioeconomic impacts of household energy vulnerability and to develop recommendations for transitioning from passive financial support to proactive measures that aim to reduce energy vulnerability. According to the study’s findings, the compensatory measures implemented by the Moldovan government partially mitigated the burden of high tariffs on households; however, energy poverty ultimately increased. JEL: Q41, I32, I31