Prishtina, 02.11.2017 – We will open way for solar energy licenses very soon. The following step will be to extend these licenses through an auction, in order to obtain the best offer. Around 100 million euro will be introduced to such projects, said the Minister of Economic Development, Valdrin Lluka, in the round table on “Attraction of foreign direct investments”, organized by the American Chamber of Commerce.

On this occasion, Minister Lluka explained to all present the plans of his ministry to ensure stable electricity supply, as a very important element for long-term economic development.

He also emphasized the need to accelerate the development of the new thermal power plant, explaining that final negotiations with the awarded company are now under way.

Minister Lluka also discussed on Ministry’s plans regarding renewable energy sources, where various investments are planned in cooperation with the European Union.

Head of MED said that very soon all interested parties may apply for licenses for solar energy. “I think that very soon we will open way for solar energy licenses. The next step will be to extend these licenses through public auctions, in order to obtain the best offers. Around 100 million euro will be invested in these projects,” said Minister Lluka.

On the other hand, Arian Zeka, Executive Director of the American Chamber, said that Kosovo’s advancement in World Bank’s Doing Business report is commendable, however, the time is right for improvements to be reflected in increased foreign direct investments.

The Minister of Trade and Industry, Bajram Hasani, added that the Law on Strategic Investments will soon be functionalized through bylaws, and will provide greater facilities for attracting investments.

Blerta Qerimi, World Bank Private Sector Specialist, said that Kosovo’s advancement in the World Bank’s Doing Business report represents a positive development for Kosovo, however, more needs to be done by the country’s institutions in its economic integration, taking into consideration the low levels of foreign investments and exports.