Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski said there would be no disruptions to energy supplies during the winter and that citizens should not be concerned about price increases or shortages.

He stressed that the executive is considering two options for the period after January: either lowering electricity prices or continuing to apply the preferential tariff.

Regarding gas, Mickoski does not foresee major turbulence for the country, although he acknowledged that its price could multiply in European markets.

Speaking about the current situation, the head of government explained that the increase in electricity prices was occurring on international exchanges and not in the domestic market. He insisted that the price for domestic consumers had remained unchanged since this government took office and would continue to do so. “For the time being, we are working to ensure that the price does not change at least from January, but we are also aiming either to lower it or continue the lower tariff,” Mickoski said.

The prime minister said that water reserves had been secured on time and were now at around 50 percent, while maintenance work at thermal power plants was in its final phase. According to meteorological forecasts, the full heating season will begin between November 2 and 5, and all preparations will have been completed by then, although around 75 percent of the work has already been carried out.

Another factor that will help reduce costs, according to Mickoski, is the coal supply agreement concluded with Kosovo in a timely manner. He said this would significantly reduce the cost of producing one megawatt-hour at Macedonia’s energy facilities.

“In terms of electricity quantities and the heating season, I do not expect instability. I believe the situation will remain the same as it is now, without price increases or fluctuations,” he stressed. As for gas, Mickoski pointed out that the country is not a major user and that European reserves are significantly lower than the average of the past five years, which could lead to the price doubling or tripling during the winter. Nevertheless, he assured that this would not have serious consequences for Macedonia thanks to the use of cogeneration plants, which simultaneously produce hot water and electricity from steam, thereby reducing input costs.

Regarding oil, the prime minister confirmed that calculations were under way and that protective measures were already active. He described the government’s ability to allow domestic consumption and re-export at the same time as an achievement, stressing that no other state could impose an embargo on the re-export of fuel from our country.

As a result of higher excise taxes and the declaration of a state of crisis, Mickoski announced that petrol in Macedonia was being sold for up to half a euro less per liter than in neighboring countries, leading to an increase of up to 50 percent in consumption at some fuel stations near the border. He added that he was in daily communication with importers, that the pipeline was full, and that state reserves were strong. “At this moment, I see no reason for panic during the winter. The only concern is how long this crisis will continue, a question to which no one in the world has an answer,” Prime Minister Mickoski concluded.

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