The Kosovo Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has filed a lawsuit against the Energy Regulatory Office (ERO) concerning its decision to force businesses into the free energy market starting June 1st, Reporteri.net reports.
According to the KCCI, the ERO’s decision is hasty, arbitrary, and ill-prepared, with significant financial consequences for businesses.
“The decision was made without prior consultations with stakeholders, without an in-depth market analysis, and this not only jeopardizes the sustainability of businesses but also endangers jobs,” the KCCI stated in a press release. “Furthermore, despite public statements that the market has been liberalized and that numerous supply opportunities are open, currently there is only one company – KESCO – sending offers for business supply. This contradicts the very essence of liberalization and turns this process into a hidden monopoly, increasing the risk of price and service quality abuse.”
The KCCI is calling on justice institutions to intervene immediately to suspend the decision.
“The Kosovo Chamber of Commerce and Industry calls on the justice institutions to intervene immediately to suspend this decision and order the ERO to return to a regular, transparent, and inclusive process,” the statement emphasized. “The KCCI remains committed to protecting the interests of businesses and will continue to take all legal, political, and public actions to ensure a fair, regulated, and open energy market for all.”
Businesses have been demanding a postponement of the decision’s entry into force. Yesterday, businesses held a two-hour protest, blocking key entrances to the capital city. This lawsuit marks a significant escalation in the business community’s opposition to the ERO’s abrupt liberalization plan.
