As part of the regional project “Implementing the principles of good governance in public-private partnership projects (GO PPP)”, supported by the SMART Balkans program, a study visit was organized in Ljubljana, which included representatives from the Ministry of energy, mining and mineral resources of the Republic of North Macedonia.
The GO PPP project aims to strengthen the application of good governance principles in public-private partnerships (PPPs) and to encourage regional cooperation among Western Balkan countries.
ACTIVITIES AND MEETINGS
During the visit, meetings were held with:
- The Municipality of Zalec and the mayor Janko Kos;
- The Ministry of culture and the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Slovenia;
- Representatives of the PPP Forum and the City of Ljubljana.
Participants had the opportunity to learn about the planning, approval, and implementation processes of PPP projects, as well as the legal and institutional framework of Slovenia.
GOOD PRACTICE EXAMPLE: KINDERGARTEN “ZALEC WEST”
The Municipality of Zalec implemented a successful PPP project with the private partner ESOTECH d.d. The project, valued at €12.8 million, includes the construction of a modern kindergarten with a solar power plant and high energy efficiency standards. The concession agreement is signed for 15 years, after which the facility becomes municipal property.
EXPERIENCES FROM INSTITUTIONS
The Ministry of culture noted that although there is interest in PPPs in the field of culture, no projects have been implemented so far due to limited interest from the private sector.
The Ministry of finance emphasized that it participates in the final phase of the process, once the feasibility and financial justification of the projects are confirmed.
CONCLUSION
The study visit to Ljubljana represents a valuable experience for exchanging good practices and deepening of the regional cooperation. The visit provided insight into successful PPP examples that can serve as models for developing similar projects in North Macedonia, especially in the areas of energy efficiency and local development.
