The Minister of Energy, Mining, and Mineral Resources, Sanja Bozhinovska, accompanied by the Director of AD MEPSO, Burim Latifi, visited the Bitola 2 transformer station for the commissioning of the new 400/110 kV transformer. This investment marks a turning point and a key step in ensuring energy stability for the southwest region of the country and the entire electricity system.
“Our network was under serious risk, especially due to the two burnt transformers, which created a real danger of collapse of the entire electricity system. The new transformer will strengthen the security of electricity supply in Bitola, Prilep, Resen, Ohrid, and Struga, ensuring stable supply during the increased consumption in the winter months. Additionally, it will enable uninterrupted electricity generation in REK Bitola, a key supplier of electricity in the country,” said Minister Bozhinovska.
The project, initially started in 2023 but neglected by the previous management, faced delays and setbacks. Under the leadership of the new management, the project was revived and expedited to meet the urgent needs of the region. The transport of the transformer was a challenge itself, including unfavorable weather conditions, strong winds that hindered the loading and unloading at the port, and the need for permits for transportation across several countries.
“The successful delivery of the transformer was only possible thanks to the teamwork and dedication of our technical teams and coordination with the relevant Ministries. We inherited a system on the verge of collapse, but with focus and expertise, we delivered a solution that restores stability and trust,” emphasized Burim Latifi, CEO of AD MEPSO.
The installation of the transformer will also enable the continuation of the reconstruction of the 110 kV overhead line TS Bitola 1 – TS Prilep 1, which was halted due to the failure of the two transformers.
The Minister’s visit is part of ongoing efforts to modernize energy infrastructure. In collaboration with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the development of a strategy for strengthening the national grid to accelerate and ensure the integration of renewable energy sources and modernization of the country’s energy infrastructure has started.
Bozhinovska noted that with exceptional dedication, work has been ongoing on the new Energy Law and the Law on Renewable Energy Sources, which will help the country get back on track for rapid integration into the single electricity system.
“On a long-term basis, our initiatives are closely aligned with the EU’s energy security and green transition goals. Additionally, through the Western Balkan infrastructure facilities mechanism, we plan to upgrade the 400 kV interconnection between North Macedonia and Greece, specifically the 400 kV Bitola-Lerin interconnection, which will increase cross-border capacity. We plan to introduce the Dynamic Line Rating technology on critical corridors to maximize efficiency and increase transmission capacity. One of the key long-term goals is to initiate the digitization process of our transformer stations, including the transition to systems without SF6 gas.
Another priority area is the progress in market integration through market coupling with Greece, Albania, and Kosovo, expected to be fully implemented by 2027, creating a unified regional market that will increase flexibility and adequacy of the Macedonian electricity system, thus enabling additional integration of renewable energy sources,” added Minister Bozhinovska.