Following the recent decision to raise electricity tariffs by 16.1%, the Kosovo Energy Regulatory Office (ZRRE) faces two looming lawsuits: one from the protest group “Not a Cent More” and another from business community representatives.
The protest group’s lawyer, Ardian Bajraktari, announced that they would file a lawsuit as soon as ZRRE officially publishes the decision. They will also seek a suspension of the decision’s implementation.
“We are waiting for the decision to be published so we can analyze it and finalize the lawsuit, through which we will request the annulment of a decision made in violation of the law. Alongside the lawsuit, we will request a protective measure to postpone the execution of the decision, given the chain damage it causes citizens, which would be difficult to repair,” Bajraktari explained.
Separately, business representatives have also signaled their intention to take legal action against ZRRE.
Skënder Krasniqi, head of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said businesses are considering suing ZRRE as the increased tariffs will severely impact business operations. He also urged the newly-formed Parliament to take measures against ZRRE’s board, which is appointed by the government.
Meanwhile, Lulzim Rafuna, head of the Economic Chamber, warned that businesses would be forced to raise product prices due to increased operational costs, making domestic products less competitive compared to imports.
“Our products will become more expensive for Kosovars and less competitive compared to imported goods. As a result, domestic production will shrink while imports will increase, ultimately benefiting foreign producers,” Rafuna cautioned.
ZRRE made the decision to raise electricity tariffs on April 16, set to take effect on May 1.
