Black Sea gas could begin flowing to the Republic of Moldova in autumn 2027, according to Prime Minister Vasile Tofan. Romania is expected to start production at the Neptun Deep offshore gas field in summer 2027, potentially allowing the first deliveries to Moldova a few months later, IPN reports.
The announcement was made during a joint press conference with Romanian Prime Minister Luca Niculescu, who is on an official visit to Chișinău.
Black Sea Gas for Moldova: What Could Change in 2027?
According to Tofan, Romania currently produces approximately eight billion cubic metres of natural gas annually. The development of new production capacity could potentially double that figure.
The Moldovan prime minister highlighted the geographical proximity of Romania’s gas resources, explaining that shorter transportation distances could reduce costs and strengthen Moldova’s energy security.
However, imports from Neptun Deep remain a possibility rather than a confirmed supply arrangement. No specific contracts or delivery schedules have been announced.
If production and export arrangements proceed as anticipated, Black Sea gas could become an additional source of natural gas for Moldova.
Moldova and Romania Seek Stronger Energy Connections
Romanian Prime Minister Luca Niculescu reaffirmed Bucharest’s support for Moldova’s energy independence.
The two governments discussed accelerating energy interconnection projects and improving infrastructure linking the neighbouring countries.
Closer energy cooperation is expected to help Moldova diversify its supply sources and reduce vulnerabilities associated with dependence on limited import routes.
New Bridges Across the Prut and Economic Cooperation
Energy was not the only subject discussed during the bilateral meeting.
The prime ministers also addressed plans to construct new bridges across the Prut River, including the Ungheni bridge project.
Another priority is introducing coordinated border controls at the Cantemir–Fălciu crossing, aimed at improving cross-border movement.
According to Niculescu, bilateral trade between Romania and Moldova reached €4.5 billion last year.
Romanian companies have also created approximately 12,000 jobs in the Republic of Moldova.
Regional Security and Moldova’s EU Accession
During the meeting, Tofan condemned Russia’s attacks on Ukraine and violations of Moldova’s airspace.
Niculescu reiterated Romania’s support for Moldova’s European integration, including the objective of opening the final two negotiating clusters by the end of 2026.
The two prime ministers are also scheduled to visit the Chișinău electrical substation as part of the official programme.
Why Black Sea Gas Matters for Moldova
The Neptun Deep project could provide Moldova with another regional source of natural gas at a time when energy diversification remains a strategic priority.
Access to additional Romanian production could strengthen supply security, potentially lower transportation costs and deepen economic cooperation between the two countries.
Nevertheless, autumn 2027 remains a projected timeline, dependent on the start of offshore production and the necessary commercial arrangements.
For now, the potential import of Black Sea gas represents an opportunity rather than a confirmed delivery agreement.
