OEK and Riinvest call for Kosovo’s inclusion in the regional gas network to boost energy security

Kosovo’s inclusion in the regional natural gas infrastructure, together with a review of the Energy Strategy, emerged as some of the most important proposals from the debate “Gas as an Energy Source: Current Situation and Outlook,” organized by the Kosovo Chamber of Commerce (OEK) and the Riinvest Institute for Development Research.

During the discussion, attended by representatives of institutions, businesses, experts, academics, and members of civil society, it was assessed that the country must take concrete steps to guarantee an energy supply that is sustainable, affordable, and long-term, through diversifying sources and reducing dependence on imports.

According to the participants, the lack of investment in new energy capacities over many years has directly contributed to rising energy costs for citizens and businesses, while also harming the competitiveness of Kosovo’s economy.

In this context, it was emphasized that natural gas is seen as a strategic solution to increase energy security and strengthen the stability of the energy system. The importance of Kosovo connecting to the regional gas network through the Alexandroupolis LNG terminal via the SKOPRI interconnector was also highlighted, as well as through a link to the planned terminal in Vlora via the ALKOGAP project, with the aim of diversifying supply sources and routes.

At the close of the debate, OEK and Riinvest presented several concrete recommendations.

One of them was for the Government of Kosovo to prioritize engagement for the country’s inclusion in the regional gas pipeline network and for the construction of the necessary infrastructure from Hani i Elezit, so that natural gas can be used for electricity generation, industry, and heating systems.

A review of the Energy Strategy was also requested, including the development of gas infrastructure, interconnection with the Vlora terminal, and the possibility of lignite gasification, with infrastructure that would also be suitable for the transport of green hydrogen in the future.

Among the recommendations was also the acceleration of the development of renewable energy sources, in line with the objectives of the European Union’s Green Agenda for the Western Balkans.

Another request was to deepen energy cooperation between Kosovo and Albania, with a focus on optimizing energy systems and examining joint investments in new generation capacities.

The Kosovo Chamber of Commerce and the Riinvest Institute reiterated at the end that building gas infrastructure, diversifying energy sources, and regional cooperation remain essential conditions for strengthening energy security, increasing the competitiveness of the economy, and ensuring Kosovo’s sustainable development.