Kosovo’s Prime Minister Albin Kurti highlighted the critical need to strengthen the country’s energy sector following the recent attack on the Ibër-Lepenc canal, which provides vital water and energy resources.
The Ministry of Economy, with support from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) as the transaction’s main advisor and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), has launched Kosovo’s first 100 MW wind auction to boost renewable energy production.
Kurti emphasized that Kosovo possesses significant natural potential for renewable energy. “Our economy is growing at the fastest pace in the region, with an average GDP growth of 6.36% over the past three years,” he said. “Compared to the start of our mandate, exports have doubled, and foreign direct investments have more than doubled as well. This growth is reflected in the increased consumption of electricity by businesses.”
He further explained that this economic growth necessitates an expansion of energy capacities. “Dependence on energy imports, especially from autocratic states, is not only dangerous for the economy but also for national security.”
The attack on the Ibër-Lepenc infrastructure has reinforced the need for Kosovo to enhance its energy independence. “This attack has made it clear how vital it is for us to strengthen our energy resilience, not just for the energy sector, but to safeguard Kosovo’s energy sovereignty,” Kurti concluded.
Through increased investment in renewable energy, Kosovo aims to diversify its energy sources and secure a more sustainable and independent future.
