How renewable is North Macedonia?

According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), North Macedonia increased the production of energy from renewable sources to 827 MW last year, which is up by an annual 10.1% and is in line with the global average of 10.3% growth.

How many power plants are there in North Macedonia?

The electric power production system in North Macedonia consists of two coal power plants with a total installed capacity of 825 megawatts (MW), several hydro power plants with a total installed capacity of 695 MW, one combined generation power plant, a heavy oil plant, solar power plants, a few biogas plants, and two wind power farms.

Is North Macedonia a state-owned power company?

North Macedonia’s state-owned power company was unbundled and partially privatized in the early 2000s. Austrian utility company EVN has been responsible for electricity distribution in North Macedonia since entering the market in 2006.

Does North Macedonia still have a coal power plant?

The smaller coal power plant, “REK Oslomej,” which was dormant through 2020, was reactivated in 2021 to help North Macedonia reduce its reliance on electricity imports. ESM refurbished the “REK Bitola” coal power plant boilers in 2017, but its equipment is still largely outdated.

What is North Macedonia's Energy Strategy?

As the world moves towards decarbonisation and green energy, North Macedonia is executing an ambitious national energy strategy, which foresees a 66% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from the energy sector compared to 1990 by 2030.

How is electricity produced in North Macedonia?

North Macedonia is a net importer and domestic electricity is produced almost entirely from ESM’s power plants. Electricity imports amount to approximately 20-30% of the total domestic electricity consumption and are mostly required to meet peak winter demand.