Prishtina, 25.05.2023 – A Pre-Bid Conference for the 100 MW Solar Auction, organized the Ministry of Economy (ME) and USAID, was held, which conference was opened by the Minister of Economy, Artane Rizvanolli, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo, Albin Kurti and the Ambassador of the United States of America (USA) to Kosovo, Jeffrey M. Hovenier.

Minister Rizvanolli told the audience that renewable energy capacities are the key to energy independence, ensuring sustainable economic development as a need for our country, ensuring sustainable energy supply and affordable prices for citizens and businesses. She emphasized that the building of these new energy capacities is very important for encouraging private investment through a transparent and competitive process that will ensure quality and affordable prices for our consumers.

Rizvanolli added that through this first solar auction, we will have an additional 100 MW of energy generation, contributing to the diversification of the energy mix, innovation and competition in this sector, as well as improving the quality of life for the citizens of our country.

This solar plant is expected to supply around 20 thousand households with clean energy, generate new jobs, and bring forward advanced technology, knowledge and new practices to Kosovo. The Prime Minister of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, expressed his satisfaction that Minister Rizvanolli and her team managed to initiate this process. He stated that this will increase benefits and reduce costs as well as pave the way for future renewable energy projects.

“We have made a major step in the energy sector. I am proud that Kosovo is taking all the steps towards an environmentally friendly economy. Our goal is to create a favourable environment for investments”, he added.

On the other hand, the American Ambassador, Jeffrey M. Hovenir stated that the auction represents an important step for Kosovo towards EU integration adding that the energy crisis made clear the importance of a stable energy supply.

“I am glad to see that the private sector is also involved in this process. Their involvement is vital in achieving the goals. I congratulate the Kosovo leaders for a transparent process and cooperation with the private sector. This auction represents an important step for Kosovo towards EU integration”, he said.

Presentations, discussions and briefing videos took place, and there were discussion panels by the relevant stakeholders. The conference was attended by the following participants:  Minister of Economy, Artane Rizvanolli, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, the Ambassador of the United States of America (USA) to Kosovo, Jeffrey M. Hovenier, Minister of Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure, representatives from KOSTT, ERO, EBRD, AWESK, WEM, KCC.