The United States Government has approved $130 million in funding for the construction of the Strășeni–Gutinaș 400 kV overhead power line. The project will help strengthen the Republic of Moldova’s electricity grid and enhance the country’s energy security, TRIBUNA reports.

Named the “Trump Liberty Line,” the project involves the construction of a new 400 kV overhead power line connecting the Gutinaș substation in Romania with the Strășeni substation in the Republic of Moldova. On the Moldovan side, the line will be approximately 72 kilometers long and will cross the districts of Hîncești, Nisporeni, and Strășeni, with the border crossing located near the village of Leușeni. On the Romanian side, the line will extend for approximately 144 kilometers.

In the Republic of Moldova, the project also includes the modernization of the Strășeni substation, including the installation of two autotransformers that will enable the connection of the 330 kV infrastructure to the 400 kV system. These works will increase transmission capacity and facilitate the flow of electricity between the Republic of Moldova and Romania.

The new line will help diversify electricity supply options, increase system stability, and strengthen Moldova’s connection to the European energy system. For consumers, the development of this infrastructure means a stronger grid that is better equipped to cope with challenging situations and growing energy demand.

At present, of the four route options assessed as part of the preparation of the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) documentation, the most feasible option has been approved. At the same time, the assessment of the project’s impact on the environment and local communities continues, along with biodiversity monitoring and consultations with stakeholders.