Bozinovska: Solar Roofs, Stable Accounts – Macedonia builds energy future for all

Macedonia is ready for a new energy model – just, transparent and socially responsible, is the message of today’s event that promoted the report of the OECD Development Center « Energy Prices and Subsidies in the Western Balkans: Reforms for Fair and Green Future », which was addressed by Energy Minister and Energy Minister.

According to the Ministry of Energy, Mining and Mineral Raw materials, the report, prepared with international partners, provides a clear overview of the fiscal costs related to energy subsidies, with a particular focus on the period of energy crisis in 2021–2022.

According to the analysis, Macedonia allocated serious funds in the period 2018–2023, direct support for the energy sector. As Minister Bozinovska pointed out, most of these funds were intended to depreciate price shocks and protect the standard of living of citizens in times of global crises. But, as stated in the report, the existing model of uniform subsidies often contributes to a greater transfer to households with higher consumption, rather than vulnerable categories.

« With the new Energy Law we have made a crucial step -we are moving from universal support to targeted social protection based on the actual conditions of the household, not just consumption, » Bozinovska said, announcing that in cooperation with the Ministry of Social Policy, a methodology for measuring energy was established.

The minister also highlighted the block-tariff system used since July 2022, but pointed to his restrictions.

« Multi -members or people with chronic diseases, who have a real need for higher consumption, are exposed to higher prices despite their social status, » she said.

In the panel discussion with key stakeholders from institutions, civil sector and international partners, issues of market liberalization, energy transition financing and the need for innovative solutions and fair distribution of public funds were opened.

The Energy Law is further stated, provides for new mechanisms for the protection of vulnerable consumers – as direct financial support, prohibition of excluding network in winter conditions and energy efficiency subsidies. In addition, every consumer is also introduced to change their electricity supplier within 48 hours, at no cost, which opens the fair competition.

-This law is not just technical regulation -it is a reflection of our determination to build an energy system that will be economically sustainable, socially just and environmentally responsible. Our vision is clear – Macedonia with solar panels on the roofs, road vehicles and stable electricity bills – said Bozinovska, stressing that it was precisely reports on how this one on the OECD is a tool for better policies, with a clear purpose – a fair transition in which no one will be left out.

The event united policy makers, civil society representatives and international organizations in a joint commitment to Macedonia’s fair and green energy future, according to a statement from the Ministry of Energy, Mining and Mineral Raw materials.