As countries around the world, including Macedonia, face rising energy demand and the urgent need for climate action, it is essential that we collaborate on innovation and strategically plan new projects. We live in a reality where everything related to the energy sector is of critical importance. Accordingly, the theme of this year's gathering provides us with insight and encourages us to proactively advance knowledge, policies, and technologies in energy production, sustainable development, and environmental protection.
This was the message from the Minister of Energy, Mining, and Mineral Resources, Sanja Bozhinovska, speaking at the renowned international conference "Energy 2024."
In her address, Bozhinovska emphasized the significance of energy production and distribution as the foundation of economic growth and stability.
"We are entering an era of clean energy, energy efficiency, and technological progress, which will allow us to reduce carbon emissions while ensuring secure and affordable access to energy for all.
This brings us to one of the key topics of the conference: the energy transition. Countries are moving away from fossil fuels and investing in renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal energy.
Macedonia is no exception, as we have taken significant steps in expanding renewable energy capacities, especially with solar and wind park projects. However, we must acknowledge that this transition is full of challenges," Bozhinovska emphasized.
Political frameworks also play a crucial role in the energy transition. Policies must support the shift to clean energy while addressing the socio-economic aspects of this process.
According to Bozhinovska, governments must ensure clear and predictable regulatory conditions that encourage investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency.
This leads to the second critical theme of the conference: the sustainable development of energy systems. The systems we are building today will have far-reaching consequences for future generations. Our responsibility is to ensure that these systems are sustainable, resilient, and adaptable to the changing needs of society and the environment.
Sustainable development in the energy sector does not only mean adopting clean energy technologies, but also promoting energy efficiency and reducing our overall energy consumption.
"This important conference organized by ZEMAK is not just an opportunity for knowledge exchange, but a call to action. The ideas we exchange and the partnerships we build here will shape the future of energy in our country, the region, and the world.
Let us seize this opportunity to forge new collaborations, explore the latest technologies, and develop strategies that will lead us toward a cleaner, more sustainable, and secure energy future.
Together, we can overcome the challenges and build a better, greener world for future generations," Minister Bozhinovska concluded.
