Solar4Kosovo: Investing in a Kosovo solar plant
The Kosovo Energy Corporation (KEK) is set to begin construction of a 100 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) plant, a project financed by the European Union through its Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans. Known as Solar4Kosovo, this new solar plant is a key component of the EU’s strategy to help Kosovo expand its renewable energy capacity and reduce its reliance on coal power.
Kosovo currently generates over 90% of its electricity from lignite, a highly polluting type of coal and a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions. The Solar4Kosovo project will help the country shift toward cleaner energy sources, aligning with its goal of achieving a 35% share of renewable energy in its total energy consumption by 2031. For homeowners looking to adopt solar, Kosovo also offers a solar subsidy scheme, as reported by pvknowhow.com, which provides up to €1000 off solar thermal systems.
EU Support for a Kosovo solar plant
In a recent press release, the European Commission announced its financial support for the Solar4Kosovo project, highlighting the critical need to reduce Kosovo’s dependence on coal. This initiative is part of a broader EU effort to promote energy transition in the Western Balkans, with Solar4Kosovo being one of several key renewable projects backed by the EU. The Commission stated, “The EU will continue to support Kosovo, including through the EU for Energy Transition project and the EU’s Economic and Investment Plan, and to work closely with the U.S. to improve the energy security of Kosovo and the entire region.” This support is channeled through the EU’s Economic and Investment Plan, which aims to foster sustainable development and economic growth with a focus on renewable energy, infrastructure, and digitalization.
Funding and Future Phases of Solar4Kosovo
The first phase of the Solar4Kosovo project is valued at €90 million, with a €20 million contribution from the European Commission. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is also providing a grant to KEK to support the installation of the 100 MW solar power plant. Confirmed by Kosovo’s Minister of Economy, Artane Rizvanolli, the plant will be located in the municipality of Obiliq and is expected to be completed by 2025. A second phase is planned, which will add an additional 100+ megawatts of solar PV capacity.
Solar4Kosovo’s Impact on Kosovo’s Energy Goals
The Solar4Kosovo project will significantly contribute to Kosovo’s ambitious goal of achieving a 35% share of renewable energy in total consumption by 2031. This target is a central part of Kosovo’s Energy Strategy, which outlines the country’s path toward diversifying its energy mix and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.
In addition to Solar4Kosovo, the EU is also financing another solar power plant in the capital, Pristina. This separate project, to be built on a closed landfill, demonstrates the EU’s ongoing commitment to supporting Kosovo’s transition to renewable energy.
The launch of the Solar4Kosovo project marks a major milestone in Kosovo’s journey toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. With backing from the European Union and other international partners, Kosovo is making crucial strides in its energy transition, paving the way for a greener, more resilient energy landscape.
