Electricity prices in Kosovo are set to increase by 15% starting May 1, 2025, according to the Energy Regulatory Office (ZRRE). The main reason cited is the rise in energy prices on international markets.
“In the public consultation report, we stated that an average increase of 15% is expected. The main cause is the spike in prices on electricity exchanges from which Kosovo purchases energy,” said Petrit Pepaj, managing director at ZRRE, during a briefing with journalists on April 7.
Pepaj also pointed out that “Kosova B” units will undergo extended maintenance this year, making it necessary to import more electricity to ensure a stable supply.
Public Opposition
The announcement of the price hike has triggered public outrage. On April 2, 12 activists from the initiative “Not a Cent More” were arrested while protesting at the ZRRE offices. A separate protest was held on April 5 in Prishtinë.
“We are the poorest people in Europe, drowning in debt. No institution or government has the right to make life harder for us,” said protest organizer Besnik Shabiu, demanding the suspension of the 15% price increase.
Official Comments Against the Increase
ZRRE received 396 citizen comments, along with feedback from eight NGOs, four licensed electricity trading companies, four businesses, one MP, the Ministry of Economy, and the Office of the President. The regulatory office is expected to publicly respond by Friday, April 11.
The Presidency has strongly opposed the proposed hike, arguing it contradicts ZRRE’s legal obligation to protect consumers and disregards the economic situation in Kosovo.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Economy has requested that households consuming less than 800 kWh per month be exempt from the price increase.
Civil society groups and opposition parties, including LDK, AAK, and PDK, have also voiced their objections. Another protest organized by “Not a Cent More” is scheduled for Friday, April 11, at 12:00 p.m. in Zahir Pajaziti Square in Prishtinë.
