The Mayor of Prishtina, Përparim Rama, has expressed full support for local businesses facing serious difficulties due to the liberalization of the electricity market in Kosovo.
According to Rama, the current pace and manner of implementing this reform are placing an unfair burden on the private sector, a key pillar of the country’s economy.
“Prishtina will not stand idly by while our businesses risk shutting down,” Rama stated, emphasizing that this is a critical moment requiring immediate and coordinated action.
While acknowledging that energy reform may be necessary for long-term sustainability, he stressed that it must not come at the expense of businesses that keep the local economy alive.
In his full statement, Rama outlined several measures and appeals:
🔹 Appeal to the Central Government:
- Implement a transitional phase toward a liberalized market, allowing businesses sufficient time to adapt and secure fair contracts.
- Suspend disconnection threats until a comprehensive support framework is in place.
- Engage in open dialogue with municipal leaders, business chambers, and representatives of the private sector to co-create a sustainable path forward.
🔹 Immediate Steps by Prishtina Municipality:
- Establish a Task Force for Business Sustainability to assess energy vulnerabilities and propose local solutions.
- Explore municipal energy collaborations and renewable energy initiatives to reduce dependency on volatile markets.
- Provide temporary tax relief and emergency grants to the most affected businesses during this transition.
Rama concluded with a call for unity, transparency, and responsibility in overcoming this critical challenge:
“Businesses are not just economic units; they are employers, innovators, and community builders. Their survival is a shared responsibility. Together, we can build a fairer and more sustainable energy future.”
