Rizvanolli: Kosovo aims for up to 100 MW of new capacity from the wind energy auction

Kosovo is expected to take a major step in expanding its energy sources and increasing investment in clean energy through the auction for the construction of new wind energy capacities.

As part of this process, the Ministry of Economy held the official pre-bid conference for the wind energy tender in Kosovo (Kosovo Wind Tender – Pre-Bid Conference), with the aim of adding up to 100 megawatts of new wind generation capacity, KosovaPress reports.

Acting Minister of Economy Artane Rizvanolli stressed that the development of renewable energy is essential both for meeting the commitments Kosovo has made to the European Union and for increasing domestic energy production.

Rizvanolli: Kosovo will add up to 100 megawatts of new generation capacity

“Renewable energy sources are essential for us to comply with the commitment we have made toward the EU. Kosovo’s approach in recent years has been clear. We are increasing domestic energy production from renewable sources and ensuring that every new investment is long-term… The wind energy auction we are discussing today serves precisely this vision. Through it, Kosovo will add up to 100 megawatts of new generation capacity, and this process comes after the successful completion of an earlier qualification phase, in which three pre-qualified bidders have now been invited to prepare their technical and financial offers,” Rizvanolli said.

The chairman of the board of the Energy Regulatory Office (ERO), Ymer Fejzullahu, described the conference as an important milestone on Kosovo’s path toward a more sustainable and more competitive electricity system.

Fejzullahu: An important step toward transforming the energy sector

“This conference marks an important moment in Kosovo’s journey toward a sustainable, more competitive, and more integrated electricity system in line with European developments in the energy sector. Organizing the auction for renewable wind energy represents an important step toward transforming the energy sector, increasing security of supply, and fulfilling national objectives for the sustainable development of the energy sector. The energy sector in Kosovo, as in many other countries, is going through a period of profound transformation. The challenges we face, such as decarbonization, energy security, growing demand for energy, and the process of integrating electricity markets, require careful policies as well as careful decisions that encourage sustainable investment. In this context, wind energy presents an extraordinary opportunity for Kosovo,” he said.

Meanwhile, KOSTT chief executive officer Trim Tërnava announced that the necessary grid connection capacities have already been reserved for all participating bidders, so that the process can proceed with fairness and certainty.

Tërnava: KOSTT has already reserved the necessary grid connection capacities

“It is very important to emphasize today that, regarding grid connections, KOSTT has already reserved the necessary grid connection capacities for all bidders participating in this process, and these capacities will remain reserved until the completion of this bidding process. This is intended to provide all bidders with equal treatment and sufficient certainty during the preparation of their offers. Our objective is for the grid connection process not to create unnecessary uncertainty or disadvantage for any participant. KOSTT fully recognizes the strategic importance of this project. The development of new wind generation capacities contributes to the energy transition, security of generation supply, as well as the further integration of renewable energy sources into our energy system. In addition, this project also greatly helps generation adequacy by adding new domestic capacities and strengthening the security and reliability of electricity supply,” he said.