North Macedonia’s Renewable Energy Future: Blueprint for Transition

North Macedonia, is making significant strides in renewable energy. Historically reliant on coal and gas for electricity, North Macedonia has committed to phasing out coal by 2027 and aims to achieve 38% renewable energy consumption by 2030 as part of its National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP).

Projects like the Oslomej solar park, developed on a former lignite mining site, showcase this commitment, with plans for 120 MW capacity upon completion. North Macedonia’s approach emphasises balancing renewable expansion with biodiversity protection, given its role as a European biodiversity hotspot. This includes prioritising renewable developments on degraded or low-value land to avoid disrupting high-value habitats and agriculture.

A recent study by The Nature Conservancy (TNC), in collaboration with local stakeholders, highlights North Macedonia’s vast renewable potential—11 GW for solar and 0.35 GW for wind. This could supply 7.7 terawatt-hours annually, covering the nation’s projected electricity needs by 2030. The plan ensures new green jobs in former mining communities, supporting a fair and inclusive transition to a clean energy future.

Source: https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/where-we-work/europe/stories-in-europe/siting-renewable-energy-north-macedonia/