Ljatifi: Regional interconnection and modern infrastructure are key to energy security
Burim Ljatifi, General Director of AD MEPSO, participated alongside the Minister of Energy, Sanja Bozhinovska, in a ministerial meeting of the Central and South Eastern Europe Energy Connectivity (CESEC) Initiative held in Zagreb, where he presented the company’s strategic infrastructure projects and priorities for strengthening regional energy security.
In his address, Ljatifi referred to the progress in the construction of the 400 kV transmission line Bitola–Ohrid–Elbasan, whose completion is expected within 20 months, as well as the investment in a 150 MVAr reactor at SS Dubrovo, which is expected to be commissioned at the beginning of next year and will contribute to improving voltage stability in the region. He paid particular attention to the project for the construction of the new 400 kV interconnection Tetovo–Prizren, which will enable stronger interconnection of the power systems of North Macedonia and Kosovo and will contribute to increasing cross-border capacities and security of supply. The project, together with the completion of the 400 kV ring in the western part of the country, represents an important part of the development of the East-West corridor and creates preconditions for more efficient management of electricity flows and the integration of new renewable energy capacities.
In his address before the ministers from the region and representatives of the European institutions, Ljatifi also referred to the enhancement of cross-border transmission capacities, the connection to the Regional Security Coordination Centre SELENE in Thessaloniki, and the alignment of network and balancing rules with European regulation.
“The region needs stronger interconnections, coordinated system management, harmonised market rules and greater flexibility. But the most important thing is to move from planning to implementation, with strong support and cooperation between the European institutions, financial partners and transmission system operators,” stated Ljatifi.
The Minister of Energy, Bozhinovska, stated that energy security and diversification are no longer merely strategic options, but a necessity, and that regional interconnection and joint investments are key to stable supply, a competitive economy and long-term energy security.
With its participation in the CESEC meeting, MEPSO confirms its commitment to regional cooperation, the development of strategic electricity transmission infrastructure and the creation of a secure, stable and flexible power system, fully integrated into the European energy flows.