Skopje, 18 December 2024 (MIA) - The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) will provide a EUR 5 million grant for the construction of the “Bitola 1” and “Oslomej 2” photovoltaic power plants, which are expected to contribute to the country’s energy transition.

The grant agreement was signed on Wednesday by the Director General of Power Plants of North Macedonia (ESM), Lazo Uzunchev, and the EBRD representative in the country, Fatih Türkmenoğlu, in the presence of Minister of Energy, Mining and Mineral Resources Sanja Bozhinovska and the Ambassador of the European Union, Michalis Rokas.

“With the signing of this grant, the implementation of the two projects is entering its final stage. Oslomej 2 with an average annual production of 16 GWh and Bitola 1 with an average annual production of 30 GWh will increase the portfolio of renewables owned by the state which represents one more step towards the fulfillment of the strategic commitments on the path to the green energy transition,” Uzunchev said.

With the reduced production of energy from coal power plants due to the production from photovoltaic power plants, carbon emissions will be reduced by 40.000 tons, Uzunchev added.

“The photovoltaic power plants will be designed and constructed by the most competent bidders in accordance with the highest European and global standards,” Uzunchev said.

The EBRD representative in North Macedonia said the grant is being financed from the Western Balkans Fund and is proof of the assistance provided for the decarbonization in the country.

“The EBRD previously provided EUR 25 million for the development and construction of this project, which is proof of the uninterrupted support for the decarbonization of the energy sector in the country,” Türkmenoğlu said.

According to Minister Bozhinovska, the grant marks the beginning of the realization of two significant projects that will contribute to the country’s energy transition.

“With this project, ESM is maintaining its position as a leader in the energy transition. The energy transition is a vision for a future with clean energy, healthy environment and economic prosperity. The realization of these projects will reduce carbon emissions by around 40.000 tons annually,” Bozhinovska said.

Bozhinovska added that both domestic and foreign companies can participate in the public call for the power plants.

According to Ambassador Rokas, the investment comes at the right time since it provides clean and safe energy.

“We must make use of these opportunities, and we hope that this is only the beginning of many investments in this area. Investment opportunities are increasing, and I am certain that the private sector is already prepared to make use of these opportunities and invest in the country. North Macedonia fulfilled all requirements and should realize the opportunities it has with the reform agenda, which is really ambitious and transparent. Now we all need to work hand in hand to make use of these reforms and of course to have available funds,” Rokas said.

Photo: Screenshoot