Bringing on the sunshine, published by Leds EEP Platform, on August 10th, 2017
Image & source: EBRD
Stimulating sound investments in solar power generation has been set as a goal by the Ministry of Energy and Industry of Albania and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). With the signature of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) last May in Tirana, both institutions have created the basis for establishing an auction-based system that will help develop projects in the country in line with international best practice standards. This will allow Albania to increase the attractiveness of investing in solar power generation, while in the long run reducing its reliance on hydropower and energy imports.
Both institutions are now to initialize the development and subsequent implementation of a framework for allocation, which is to go through a competitive bidding process for private investors in the building, owning and operating of solar power projects in Albania with a total a combined capacity of 50 to 100 MW.
For the government, reducing dependence on energy imports is one of the main drivers for opting to take advantage of Albania’s 240 to 300 days of sunshine per year, allowing for the improvement of both the energy supply and the country’s macroeconomic and political security. According to Minister of Energy and Industry Damian Gjiknuri, “the new support auctioning schemes for renewable energy will add value in the energy sector and the domestic economy.”
Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication, it is not intended to provide legal advice as individual situations will differ and should be discussed with an expert and/or lawyer. For specific technical or legal advice on the information provided and related topics, please contact the author at the “info@albaniaenergy.org”.
