Is North Macedonia a state-owned power company?

North Macedonia’s state-owned power company was unbundled and partially privatized in the early 2000s. Austrian utility company EVN has been responsible for electricity distribution in North Macedonia since entering the market in 2006.

Why did electricity prices increase in North Macedonia in 2022?

All the gas is imported. Gas imports decreased by 35% in 2022 to 275 mcm, as gas import prices increased fivefold. Since 2020, higher prices on the European wholesale markets have contributed to raise electricity prices in North Macedonia.

How many power plants are there in North Macedonia?

The electric power production system in North Macedonia consists of two coal power plants with a total installed capacity of 825 megawatts (MW), several hydro power plants with a total installed capacity of 695 MW, one combined generation power plant, a heavy oil plant, solar power plants, a few biogas plants, and two wind power farms.

What changes did North Macedonia make to its energy policy?

While there were no other major energy legislative changes, North Macedonia continues to harmonize its energy sub-regulations with the EU Energy Community’s Third Energy Package (TEP).

Does North Macedonia still have a coal power plant?

The smaller coal power plant, “REK Oslomej,” which was dormant through 2020, was reactivated in 2021 to help North Macedonia reduce its reliance on electricity imports. ESM refurbished the “REK Bitola” coal power plant boilers in 2017, but its equipment is still largely outdated.

How much will ESM invest in North Macedonia?

The investment is estimated to be over $1 billion and will be crucial for balancing the electricity system. ESM owns and operates North Macedonia’s 36.5 MW wind park in the southern part of the country, and a private company completed construction of another 36 MW wind park.