To support the green transition in Kosovo*, one of its largest solar photovoltaic plants will be constructed on former ash dump fields near Pristina with a capacity of up to 100 MW.

The electricity sector in Kosovo is almost entirely dependent on coal-fired power plants. By increasing the share and capacity of solar energy in power generation, the project will contribute to energy supply security, a faster green transition and economic growth in the region.

Upon completion, the plant is expected to produce around 152 GWh of electricity and displace 152,000 tonnes of CO2 a year on average.

The investment benefits from Team Europe support, enabling the allocation of a €32 million EU grant channelled through the Western Balkans Investment Framework for the project’s preparation and implementation.

The grant will be combined with loans from the European Investment Bank (€33 million) and KfW Development Bank (€29 million), which will implement the project under the Mutual Reliance Initiative aiming to increase the effectiveness of combined financing and expertise. The EIB loan was signed at a ceremony on 18 March 2024.

The investment project Solar4Kosovo: Photovoltaic Plant was endorsed for financing under the WBIF in 2022, as a Flagship 4 - Renewable energy of the Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans.

AnnaCarin Platon, Head of Political Section at the EU Office in Kosovo stated: “Investing in Kosovo's renewable energy infrastructure is not just a strategic decision; it's a commitment to a sustainable future for generations to come. The launch of one of the largest renewable energy developments in the region under Team Europe marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts towards green energy transition and economic growth, as well as job creation and skills development in the Western Balkans."

Kyriacos Kakouris, EIB Vice-President, responsible for the Bank’s activities in the Western Balkans, said: “As one of the largest renewable energy developments in the region under Team Europe, this project will help Kosovo achieve its energy security and renewable energy goals. Together with the European Commission and other partners, we are glad to be able to jointly help Kosovo lay the groundwork for the decarbonisation of the local economy and diversification of the energy mix, in line with the EU Green Agenda.”

Hekuran Murati, Kosovo’s Minister of Finance, Labour and Transfers said: “The signing of today's agreement for the construction of the photovoltaic plant is a landmark moment as Kosovo advances its initiatives to secure renewable energy use for its citizens. This project, the largest of its kind in the region, not only guarantees a sustainable energy production method but also accelerates Kosovo's shift from conventional energy sources.”

* This designation is without prejudice to positions on status and it is in line with UNSCR 1244/1999 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo declaration of independence