The minister of energy, mining and mineral resources, Sanja Bozinovska held a working meeting today with Ms. Charlotte Ruhe, managing director of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) for Central and South-Eastern Europe.
Ongoing energy projects in Macedonia were discussed at the meeting, with particular emphasis on the importance of the development of the Bogdanci 2 wind park and the progress of the interconnector with Greece, which will contribute to strengthening energy stability and integration into the regional market. The EBRD expressed special interest in utilizing the hydropower potential, with a focus on the opportunities that Kozjak hydropower plant has.
Also, the ongoing process of preparing the Grid Master Plan has been discussed, which is crucial for the stability of the electricity grid and for enabling a greater share of energy from renewable sources. The modernization of the control and monitoring system (SCADA), as well as strengthening the network's cybersecurity, were also discussed. The importance of the development of battery energy storage systems by ESM was also emphasized, as well as the installation of additional capacities to strengthen the grid.
The Ministry and the EBRD also discussed energy efficiency measures and potential investments that the bank can support within the framework of the national energy strategy.
The Ministry confirmed its strong commitment to the partnership with the EBRD, which considers as a key strategic ally in the process of energy transition and sustainable development. Both parties agreed that the continuity of the successful cooperation will be of essential importance for the advancement of the energy infrastructure and strengthening the energy security of the country.
The EBRD is committed to supporting Macedonia in its energy development and our partnership demonstrates our common goal – increasing energy security and a green economy in the region”, Ms. Ruhe emphasized.
The meeting confirmed the commitment to intensify the dialogue and the development of new projects that will contribute to the green transition and economic growth of the Republic of Macedonia.
With regards,
Ministry of energy, mining and mineral resources