Prishtina, 27.02.2014 – According to the Kosovo Energy Strategy, the basis for the provision of electricity supply shall continue to be lignite, however, additional attention will be vested in environmental and health considerations, therefore, policies and technologies that provide for minimal pollution will be pursued, said the Minister of Economic Development, Fadil Ismajli.

The head of MED made these comments during the International Conference organized by KOSID on Sustainable Energy Options, in Prishtina, and attended by representatives of Kosovo and international institutions, the World Bank, energy enterprises, and NGOs.

Minister Ismajli reemphasized that the Strategy which is submitted for approval to the Government and Assembly prioritizes energy efficiency, as it is widely acknowledged that the sphere of energy efficiency provides the widest maneuvering possibilities.

Minister Ismajli said that energy efficiency provides great opportunities for achieving certain objectives set by Kosovo, and according to the report issued by MED, namely its Energy Efficiency Agency, the said objectives are met and will continue to be regularly met, which is of great significance.

On the other hand, regarding utilization of renewable energy sources, Minister Ismajli said that MED and other important stakeholders, including ERO, MESP and municipalities, are working in ensuring that parties interested in investments are not passed from one address to another, but to rather be able to address one sole address with all their concerns.

He said that to date ERO has issues three licenses for small and medium hydro power plants, comprising capacities of 30MW, and one wind-powered electricity plant, with installed capacities of 0.9MW.

According to Mr. Ismajli, the Kosova e Re Power Plant project is moving in its envisaged dynamics, after the substantial amendment of the project package, and that this TPP will fulfill all relevant criteria regarding energy efficiency, and therefore enjoys the support of all parties, international financial institutions and the European Commission.

Jan Peter Olters, World Bank Country Manager in Kosovo, added that the organization of this panel represents an important development, as it is used to emphasize common and cohesive stances of KOSID members, but also to see the opinions and experiences of the government and international financial institutions regarding the provision of energy in Kosovo.

Mr. Olters said that Kosovo undoubtedly needs regular energy supply and there are no doubts that electricity needs to be affordable for citizens, while having minimal adverse environmental impacts, adding that Kosovo has made serious efforts to this end.

The Minister of Health, Ferid Agani, spoke on energy sector impacts on human health, and on measures undertaken to mitigate such impacts.

Conference discussions also covered the Energy Strategy, Renewable Energy Sources, Energy Efficiency Programs, Tariff System Restructuring and impacts of energy generation on human health and living environment.