The Minister of Energy, Mining, and Mineral Resources, Sanja Bozhinovska, held a working meeting with the Rector of the “Ss. Cyril and Methodius” University in Skopje, Prof. Dr. Biljana Angelova. The meeting covered several topics of mutual interest, with a focus on energy efficiency, cooperation between the Ministry and the University, and support opportunities for young professionals.
Rector Angelova emphasized the importance of energy stability for the smooth functioning of the university, stating that high electricity bills represent a significant financial burden. She noted that the university is seeking ways to optimize electricity costs and implement a long-term, sustainable solution.
Although North Macedonia has successfully managed its electricity exchange for over a year and a half, operating through the national Electricity Market Operator (MEMO), most state and public institutions—including schools, hospitals, and utility companies—are facing serious challenges. These institutions are required to purchase electricity on the open market, paying prices set by the Hungarian HUPX exchange.
Despite being non-commercial entities, more than 200 public institutions are currently paying the average daily market price for electricity, significantly straining their budgets.
Minister Bozhinovska expressed the Ministry’s readiness to explore ways to ease this burden. She emphasized that resolving this issue is crucial for improving the energy sustainability of the public sector and for freeing up funds that could be invested in other development projects.
The Minister and the Rector also discussed the importance of encouraging students and creating conditions that will motivate young and promising talent. Minister Bozhinovska highlighted that the development and support of young people is one of the Ministry’s key priorities and that she is ready to initiate and support joint projects with the University that will help develop new talent and provide skilled professionals in the energy sector.
The Ministry of Energy remains committed to finding sustainable solutions for optimizing energy resources and ensuring economic stability for institutions and citizens.
