The Minister of energy, Sanja Bozhinovska held a working meeting with the vice-president of the European Investment Bank (EIB), Robert de Groot, who oversees the bank’s activities in the Western Balkans, including North Macedonia. The meeting took place during the visit of the vice-president de Groot to the country, where he reaffirmed his support for the development of strategic projects in the energy sector.
At the meeting, the minister and the EIB Vice-President exchanged views on future projects and initiatives that the bank could support in the country, with a special focus on energy transition, modernization of electricity infrastructure and increasing energy efficiency. Opportunities for combined financial, technical and expert support were discussed, which would enable faster preparation and implementation of high-priority projects.
Particular attention was given to supporting initiatives related to substations and electricity infrastructure, using flexible financing models. Readiness was expressed for involvement in activities related to REK Bitola, especially in the areas of energy transition, modernization and increasing the efficiency of production processes.
The EIB has experts in energy efficiency and established programs in this field, implemented in other countries. Expertise and support were offered for designing and implementing similar programs at the national level.
Vice President de Groot emphasized that the EIB is prepared to provide not only financial support but also expertise for the development of energy efficiency programs and infrastructure projects, with the aim of strengthening national capacity and advancing sustainable development.
Minister Bozhinovska stressed that North Macedonia values its cooperation with the EIB, which will contribute to accelerating the realization of key projects in the energy sector and strengthening the country’s energy independence and sustainability.
The bank expressed strong interest in establishing more intensive cooperation and supporting new initiatives in various sectors.
With regards,
Ministry of energy, mining and mineral resources
