Ohrid, 22 September 2023 (MIA) — The Energy Regulatory Commission in cooperation with the Connected for Development USAID project held a seminar on transparency for journalists ahead of the 2023-2024 heating season.

"In recent years, it was shown in practice that without energy, there is no economy. But whether there are electricity, steam and fossil fuel products and at what price, these questions undoubtedly concern every citizen and household," ERC head Mirko Bislimoski said.

"This is why accurate and timely information is crucial, especially at a time when we are still struggling with the consequences of the energy crisis that hit Europe," he told seminar participants.

"With an honest approach and integrity in answering the questions of the media and the public, ERC has put transparency at the center of its operations," Bislimoski added.

The USAID-funded Connected for Development project aims to help the country increase its energy transparency, improve the business environment, and implement best practices.

It also supports the institutions in communicating with the media to provide timely, objective and correct information to the public, organizers said.

The project is implemented by RTI International and ACT Consultancy Services. mr/