North Macedonia Solar Boom: Energy Sector Shines Bright
North Macedonia is rapidly expanding its solar energy sector, with photovoltaic (PV) systems now contributing 10% of the country’s electricity production. This remarkable growth is highlighted by the impressive 28.9 GWh generated in April 2025 alone, as reported by PVKnowhow [https://www.pvknowhow.com/news/north-macedonia-solar-energy-generated-28904-mwh-in-april-2025-a-stunning-achievement/]. This progress has been further accelerated by the new solar power plant in Zivojno, constructed in just 12 months. The plant boasts a capacity of 20 megawatts and represents a 20 million euro investment.
Zivojno: A Landmark Project in the North Macedonia Solar Boom
The Zivojno solar power plant [https://top-channel.tv/2024/04/06/maqedonia-e-veriut-energjia-diellore-arrin-10-te-prodhimit-te-saj-total/] is a significant milestone for North Macedonia, marking the country’s first privately owned power station. Projected to generate 30 gigawatt hours of electricity annually, the plant will power approximately 10,000 homes. This impressive feat was achieved through the installation of over 30,000 solar panels across an 80-hectare site.
Government Support Fuels North Macedonia Solar Boom
The rapid development of the solar sector is driven by supportive government policies and initiatives promoting renewable energy. These include tariff incentives for renewable energy producers and tax breaks for companies investing in solar power. The government aims to increase the share of renewable energy in the national energy mix to 25% by 2030, further solidifying its commitment to a sustainable future. Recent tenders for 30 MW of solar power plants on private land demonstrate this ongoing commitment [https://www.pvknowhow.com/news/north-macedonia-solar-tender-30-mw-solar-power-plants-launching/].
Private Investment and Economic Growth During the North Macedonia Solar Boom
The Zivojno plant’s success reflects the growing private sector interest in renewable energy. Owned by a consortium of local and international investors, the project highlights North Macedonia’s attractiveness for solar energy investment due to its abundant sunshine and favorable regulatory environment. This is further underscored by Kontek Solar’s acquisition of an 85% stake in a major North Macedonian solar-plus-storage project [https://www.pvknowhow.com/news/kontek-solar-acquisition-north-macedonia-project/], showcasing the growing confidence in the market. Another significant acquisition by Kontek Solar involves a 111 MW solar project, further bolstering the country’s renewable energy landscape [https://www.pvknowhow.com/news/kontek-solar-acquisition-111-mw-north-macedonia/].
Jobs and a Sustainable Future Amidst the North Macedonia Solar Boom
The expansion of solar energy in North Macedonia is creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. The Zivojno plant’s construction employed over 200 workers, with ongoing operation and maintenance creating further employment opportunities. As North Macedonia continues to invest in renewable energy, the country is becoming a leader in the transition to a sustainable energy future, reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and progressing towards its climate goals. The diversification of the renewable energy mix, which also includes hydropower as a significant contributor [https://www.pvknowhow.com/news/north-macedonia-solar-energy-production-hits-28-9-gwh-in-april-2025/], further strengthens the country’s commitment to a cleaner energy future.
