The new Draft Energy Law is a document that will shape Macedonia's energy sector for decades to come. This is not just a law, but a vision for a modern, sustainable, and competitive energy system that will benefit the economy, citizens, and the environment.
This law is part of our obligations as a member of the Energy Community. We are transposing the European "Clean Energy Package," which includes directives and regulations such as Directive (EU) 2019/944, Regulation (EU) 2019/943, CACM, REMIT, and others. We were supposed to adopt it by the end of 2023, but honestly, we delayed. Now, in April 2025, we are fully committed to finalizing this work. With the adoption of the law, we will close disputes with the Energy Community, such as cases ECS-11/24 for electricity and ECS-21/24 for gas, which is crucial for our international reputation.
However, this law is not just about fulfilling European obligations. It is a foundation for creating an energy system that will attract investments, create jobs, protect the environment, and provide secure, affordable energy for every citizen. It is part of our reform agenda to get closer to the EU and to improve life at home.
This 317-article law is the result of hard work and broad cooperation. The process began before the establishment of the Ministry of Energy, Mining, and Mineral Resources but was not completed. After the ministry was formed, we created a working group with representatives from the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), MEPSO, ESM, EVN, TE-TO, MEMO, business chambers, and other stakeholders. We held 14 meetings, and on October 24, 2024, we launched a public consultation via the ENER platform. We received comments from the Energy Community and integrated them into the text, with support from legal experts from the EBRD.
"I am proud that this law was drafted by Macedonian public administration professionals, people with years of experience in energy, without additional compensation. They set high standards for the ministry's future work, and that is something to be appreciated," emphasized Bozhinovska.
Key Innovations in the Law:
- More Renewables and Investments
The law facilitates the construction of solar, wind, and hydroelectric plants through the Annual Energy Infrastructure Plan, prepared in line with the Energy Development Strategy and the Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan. Investors can submit proposals by June 1 each year, and we will support projects that meet our clean energy goals. It also introduces clear rules for grid connection to prevent chaos from too many solar panels on the distribution network. - Protection for Vulnerable Citizens
Energy poverty is a real issue, so we are introducing a methodology for measuring it, in cooperation with the Ministry of Social Policy. Households unable to pay electricity bills will receive support — lower prices through a universal supplier or other suppliers. The government can also approve compensation, with both financial and non-financial aid. - Liberalized and Competitive Market
The law creates an electricity market where prices are formed freely but with protection for the vulnerable. It introduces "day-ahead" and "intraday" markets, making electricity trading more efficient. MEMO is appointed as the Nominated Operator (NEMO) for four years, connecting our market with Europe's via "market coupling." - Energy Storage and Electromobility
Energy storage becomes a separate activity, essential for managing renewables. Solar power produced during the day can be stored for use at night. Charging stations for electric vehicles will be integrated into the network, with fair and transparent pricing. - Smart Systems and Easy Supplier Switching
Smart metering will be introduced, eliminating unread meters. Consumers will be able to switch suppliers within 48 hours at no cost. - Citizen Energy Communities and Active Consumers
The law empowers citizens to form energy communities — for example, neighbors installing solar panels together. Citizens become active market participants, not just consumers. - Improved Energy Security
Measures to address risks in electricity and gas supply are introduced. Emergency plans will be prepared to avoid blackouts and shortages, especially during winter. - Better Network Management
A Ten-Year Transmission System Development Plan will be introduced, and the ministry will become the owner of the transmission operator for better strategic control.
The law is currently before Parliament, and there were no objections from the parliamentary committees. We are open to amendments in the second reading to make the text even better. Implementation will require strong cooperation between institutions and strengthening their capacities, as well as partnerships with the private sector and NGOs.
This law is about the future of Macedonia: stimulating economic growth, advancing technology, protecting the environment, and moving toward European and global climate goals for 2050.
We aim for Macedonia with solar panels on rooftops, electric vehicles on the roads, and stable electricity bills — that is what we are building with this law.
Respectfully,
Ministry of Energy, Mining, and Mineral Resources