The consortium “JV CELIN” S.R.L., part of the Turboenergy Power (TEP) Group, and Energobit S.A. announced the successful completion, within the contractual deadline established by the agreement signed on February 24, 2025, of the 400 kV Vulcănești Electric Substation Expansion Project (Plant Design, Supply & Installation), a component of the Power System Development Project.

CELIN, in association with Energobit, was responsible for delivering the project under an EPC contract, including design, equipment procurement, construction, testing, and commissioning activities.

The contract included the following works: design and adaptation of technical solutions to site conditions; procurement and delivery of key equipment; construction of foundations for equipment and structures; installation of steel structures; construction of the entry portal; installation of busbars and flexible connections; installation of 400 kV primary equipment; implementation of secondary protection and control systems; cabling and SCADA integration; testing and commissioning.

The project utilized equipment supplied by internationally recognized manufacturers known for the reliability and performance of their products. These included 400 kV circuit breakers produced by Siemens Energy, high-voltage disconnectors manufactured by COELME, and instrument transformers supplied by Trench Group.

Dedicated steel structures were also installed, together with the entry portal, foundations for equipment and structures, and the flexible connection systems required for the substation’s new configuration.

In the secondary systems area, SEL protection relays and automation systems were implemented, including the SEL-411L, SEL-451, and SEL-2440, ensuring protection, automation, control, interlocking, and monitoring functions for the new bay.

The new configuration uses a modern double-breaker scheme typical of extra-high-voltage installations, where safety, availability, and operational continuity are essential.

“This is one of the most important energy projects I have had the privilege to participate in throughout my career. Beyond its technical scale, we are talking about a strategic investment for the Republic of Moldova and the entire region. The expansion of the 400 kV Vulcănești substation is part of the energy interconnection project between Romania and the Republic of Moldova through the 400 kV Vulcănești–Chișinău Overhead Power Line.

In practice, we are contributing to the creation of a direct energy link between the two countries—an infrastructure that strengthens Moldova’s energy security and facilitates its integration into the European energy system. This is the kind of project that, years from now, you will be proud to say you helped build.

For us, this project represents more than an energy investment. It is a real connection between two states, two energy systems, and people who share the same values and development goals,” said Emil Melinte, Site Manager at CELIN.

The works were carried out in a strategic substation that remained operational throughout the project, requiring continuous coordination with the system operator and strict compliance with operational requirements. Weather conditions also posed significant challenges; nevertheless, the works were completed on schedule.

“We managed to meet the completion deadline, which makes us proud. Delivering on time is not the result of a single decision or effort—it is the result of the sustained work of everyone involved.

In energy infrastructure projects of this scale, unforeseen challenges always arise. What matters is how you respond and the team’s ability to find solutions.

The fact that we completed the works on schedule in June 2026, after approximately 15 months of intensive activity, confirms the professionalism, responsibility, and determination of all project participants. For me, meeting deadlines is one of the most relevant indicators of a project’s success. You are not only building equipment and infrastructure—you are also building trust,” stated Victor Slivinschi, CEO of TEP.

The project was the result of cooperation among numerous organizations and specialists. The investment beneficiary was MEPIU, while the final beneficiary and operator of the installation is Moldelectrica. The design was carried out by Progress Energy, while consulting and supervision services were provided by Gopa Tech. Construction works were executed by the CELIN–Energobit consortium. Financing was secured through the World Bank.

“The CELIN–Energobit consortium would like to thank everyone involved for the excellent cooperation, especially the teams of MEPIU and Moldelectrica for their support and commitment.

I believe one of the key reasons for the project’s success was that all parties shared the same objective and determination to bring it to completion. In many situations, open and solution-oriented collaboration helped overcome challenges that could otherwise have caused delays or additional difficulties,” concluded Emil Melinte.»

CELIN, part of the Turboenergy Power (TEP) Group, is a Romanian company with a long-standing tradition in the energy sector and extensive experience gained through numerous electrical infrastructure projects.

“There are projects that are simply construction works, and there are projects that change a country’s infrastructure. This is one of those projects that directly contributes to the energy future of the Republic of Moldova. Having the opportunity to participate in building an energy connection that literally links Romania and the Republic of Moldova is an extraordinary professional achievement. Looking back, it is impressive to realize how much has been accomplished in a relatively short time and how many people contributed to this common objective”, Emil Melinte added.