Skopje, 16 June 2026 (MIA) - Power Plants of North Macedonia (ESM) and the World Bank signed Tuesday a US$2.4 million grant agreement for realization of preparatory activities for the construction of co-generation plant REK Bitola 1, in the attendance of Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski.

ESM Director-General Lazo Uzunchev said the continuation of the successful cooperation with the World Bank reaffirms their trust in the company's development vision and its strategic projects focused on decarbonization and rising electricity production.

"These funds are intended for implementation of preparatory activities for the future co-generation plant REK Bitola 1 and enlargement of the Bitola heating grid. The grant will support the implementation of the procedures for selection of eminent consultants and developers of detailed studies, including the key feasibility study that will represent the basis for the international tender for the plant's design and construction, in line with the best international standards," said Uzunchev.

The co-generation plant, worth more than EUR 200 million, is to be built in the vicinity of the existing Bitola energy complex. It will ensure production of electricity and heating energy while significantly reducing the harmful emissions, in compliance with the latest national and European environmental standards. 

The Grant Facility for Project Preparation (GFPP) will support the big investment in Bitola, leading to a cleaner, safer and more resilient energy future. It will set the foundations for decarbonization of the energy system, integration of cleaner energy sources and enlargement of the long-distance heating system, in order to ensure secure supply with heating energy for the local communities," said Carole Megevand, World Bank Country Manager for North Macedonia and Kosovo.

She added that the project reflects the country's broader path to alignment with European energy and climate goals.

"Promotion of clean energy solutions, modernization of infrastructure and reducing emissions are important steps to creating an energy sector that is ready for the future. That is why today's signing is more than a project preparation. It supports a long-term transition - one that is cleaner, safer and more capable of serving the citizens and the economy," said Megevand.

Minister of Energy, Mining and Mineral Resources Sanja Bozhinovska said there is no compromise with the country's energy security.

"Our vision is clear - Macedonia to become a country producing more domestic energy and gradually reducing its carbon footprint. The more renewables we integrate in the system, the more we need stable and flexible base capacities that ensure security in supply. Our goal is to build a modern energy system that follows European policies while guaranteeing safe and accessible energy for citizens and the economy," said Bozhinovska.

Photo: ESM