Kosovo intends to build the first battery energy storage system (BESS) in the region, which will have 170 MW of capacity and come online in 2028, a senior government policy advisor told Montel on Thursday.
How will Kosovo's Energy System work?
The system will stabilize the fluctuating frequency of electricity, store energy in the early hours of the morning when consumption is low, and connect with solar, wind, or similar power plants. Kosovo* will own the facilities, the ministry added.
In fact, a 2018 study by the World Bank, which had for years supported the construction of Kosova e Re, found that if taking carbon and pollution costs into account, a combination of renewables and battery storage would be the most cost-effective solution for Kosovo's electricity sector.
Kosovo* will own the facilities, the ministry added. Economy minister Artane Rizvanolli said the program would back the independence of the national energy system and enable its transformation. The details will be made known after negotiations between the government and MCC, planned for May.
In order to boost employment, increase growth, reduce poverty, and improve people's lives, Kosovo needs affordable and reliable energy. The country's current electricity system is outdated, inadequate and undependable – posing significant challenges to economic growth and development.
What is the energy strategy for Kosovo?
The Kosovo energy strategy includes increasing RES capacity to 35% of electricity consumption by 2031. Aiming for 600 MW wind, 600 MW solar PV, 20 MW biomass & at least 100 MW of prosumer capacity, to reach a total installed RES capacity of 1600 MW by 2031. Lignite exploitation in Kosovo started in 1922.
Besides government institutions, there are also companies with great impact in energy sector such as Kosovo Energy Corporation (KEK), Transmission, System and Market Operator (KOSTT) and Kosovo Electricity Distribution and Supply (KEDS). A lot of legislative documents that aim the adjustment of electricity sector have been approved.