The President of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, has strongly opposed the proposal to increase electricity prices, calling it illegal and harmful to citizens, reports Rks News.
In an announcement, the Presidency stated that it has reviewed the consultative reports regarding the adjustment of the Maximum Allowed Revenues of energy operators and has already submitted its comments to the Energy Regulatory Office (ZRRE).
“In light of a potential increase, we remind that the tariff increase cannot be an isolated process, but must take into account the developmental context and the well-being of citizens. At this moment, a possible decision by the Regulator to increase the price of electricity would contradict the legal framework, which obliges ZRRE to ensure consumer protection (Article 1, Energy Regulator Law),” the Presidency’s statement said.
According to the institution, the electricity price increase, which has already seen a cumulative increase of 126% over the past four years, will directly affect the rise in the prices of goods and services, triggering a new wave of inflation.
“During 2022 and 2023, when the price of electricity rose significantly, food prices and basic products also increased drastically. The cost of living has become more burdensome for citizens, especially for those with lower incomes,” the statement further read.
The Presidency emphasized that it is not enough to compare the price of electricity in Kosovo with that of the region without considering citizens’ purchasing power and average income.
Instead of raising electricity prices, the Presidency urges ZRRE to first focus on monitoring the management of energy by KEK and improving efficiency in energy production and distribution.
“The increase in electricity prices should not be the first and only option to address financial challenges, but more balanced and sustainable solutions should be sought,” the Presidency stressed.
Meanwhile, starting from April, the price of electricity in Kosovo could rise by 15%. Currently, for consumers using up to 800 kWh per month, the daytime price is 7.79 cents per kilowatt, and after the price hike, it is expected to reach 8.96 cents.
ZRRE has warned that the price increase is unavoidable due to decreased energy production, increased consumption, and reliance on imports with high prices.
The new tariffs will come into effect on April 1 and will remain valid until March 31 of the following year.
