EU's €30 million winter energy aid to Moldova is non-refundable, Chișinău confirms

Moldovan government officials have confirmed that the €30 million energy aid package announced by European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos will be provided as non-refundable grants. Government spokesperson Dumitru Ciorici clarified the financial structure following Kos’s visit to Chișinău.

The funds will be funneled directly into the national "Ajutor la Contor" program to subsidize winter heating bills for vulnerable households. Prime Minister Vasile Tofan stated that "the money will reach people directly," while noting that Chișinău continues to seek additional external backing to keep the national budget deficit under control. Beyond energy relief, discussions between Moldovan officials and EU representatives centered on Moldova's progress toward European Union accession, with experts emphasizing that upcoming election cycles, including local votes in 2027, will be decisive for maintaining reform momentum.

Sources: Ziarul de Gardă, Newsmaker, Moldova1, TV8, Adevărul