AD MEPSO has started with the reconstruction of the 110 kV transmission line SS Shtip-SS Ovche Pole. It is a capital infrastructure project for construction of a new transmission line across the existing route of the old transmission line, which is in function since the year 1960. The length of the transmission line is 17, 88 km, including 71 towers, out of which 55 are concrete towers, while 16 are steel-lattice towers. The construction involves removal of the old concrete towers and placement of new steel-lattice towers, while on the other 16 steel-lattice towers will be replaced the equipment.
“This investment is a realization of the strategic goal of the Government, which means transition of the electricity production from carbon to renewable energy sources. To this transmission line precisely, will be connected the wind power plant “Bogoslovec” with an installed power of 36 MW”, said the General Director of AD MEPSO, Kushtrim Ramadani.
The construction of the 110 kV transmission line SS Shtip – SS Ovche Pole is part of the investment cycle for a revitalization of the transmission network of the Republic of North Macedonia. The same includes reconstruction and construction of six 110 kV transmission lines, an investment worth over 15 million euros.
“This today is of historical significance. This is the infrastructure necessary for the future we desire to experience, and that is to see this basin of Shtip and Sveti Nikole as well, rich with renewable energy resources with photovoltaics, wind turbines, but also with the essential infrastructure for the development of the complete investment in the procedure for “just transition” i.e. decarbonization and introduction of renewable energy resources” stated the Prime Minister Zoran Zaev at the official start of the construction of the transmission line SS Shtip – SS Ovche Pole. “Investments in the transmission system are crucial for the entire economic development of the country,” declared the Minister of transport and communication, Blagoj Bochvarski.
“The reconstruction is a clear message to all investors that we are strengthening the transmission network and we are creating a convenient infrastructural ambience for all potential investors that want to use the economic potential of this region. The construction of this transmission line is of great importance for the stability of the electric power in the whole region where there are many companies which need secure and reliable electricity,” pointed the M.Bochvarski.
Hailing the Government commitment to the Green Scenario from the Energy strategy, Andi Aranitasi – a representative from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, pointed out that these projects will contribute towards decrease technical losses, optimization of the power systems in the region to strengthen the reliability of the network, security of supply and future penetration of renewable energy sources.
“The rehabilitation of this specific transmission line will directly complement the renewable energy investments in the region, namely the 25MW solar photovoltaic park on state-owned land in Azambegovo and the 36 MW Wind farm in Bogoslovec. These two projects alone will bring combined investments of over 75 million euros,” said Aranitasi.
In this project, MEPSO invests 1.41 million euros, and it is supported by a loan from the EBRD. As per the planned dynamic of work, the transmission line is expected to be constructed in seven months.