Skopje, 22 December 2025 (MIA) - The Government signed Monday agreements on realization of photovoltaic power plant "Bitola 3" and revitalization of hydropower plants - Phase 3, worth EUR 97 million.

"This event goes beyond the formal act of agreement signing. We have made decisions that shape the country's future, strengthen its stability and define our vision for economic development, security and sovereignty," said Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski.

According to him, the agreements' signing sends a clear message that energy is one of the key national priorities and an investment of the highest strategic interest.

"This is an investment worth EUR 97 million, of which EUR 50 million provided by the German KfW bank for photovoltaic power plant 'Bitola 3', EUR 10 million for revitalization of hydropower plants, and EUR 37 million provided by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) for 'Bitola 3'. This brings the investments in the energy sector close to EUR 100 million," said Mickoski.

The PM noted that energy nowadays is an issue of enormous importance for national security, economic competitiveness and social stability.

"A secure, stable and own energy system is a prerequisite for resilience to economic and geopolitical challenges, as well as long-term development. Our commitment is clear: systematic, continued and responsible investments in energy capacities, with the aim of strengthening energy independence and ensuring long-term security for citizens and the economy," said Mickoski.

He added that photovoltaic plant 'Bitola 3' is a symbol of that commitment, since it represents a step towards a modern, clean and sustainable energy system that uses the force of nature in the service of public interest.

"Such investments reduce the electricity import dependency, stabilize the energy balance and create preconditions for predictable and lower costs in the long run," said Mickoski.

In addition, the revitalization of the hydropower plants - Phase 3 shows that the state knows how to manage existing resources.

"Instead of leaving these capacities to the test of time, we are investing in their modernization, increased efficiency and extended operating age. This is an approach that yields the biggest return for the country and its citizens. These investments also have a significant economic effect - opening of new jobs, contracting of domestic companies, development of local communities and increased competitiveness of the national economy. A stable energy system is the foundation of a stable economy and better standard of life for citizens," said Mickoski.

He extended gratitude to the Ministry of Finance and Power Plants of North Macedonia (ESM) for their professionalism, expertise and commitment in the implementation of these strategic investments, but also KfW and EBRD for their support and trust in the country's reform policies and vision.

"This partnership is a model of how the state and the international community can build projects of strategic significance together," said Mickoski.

According to him, this Government objective is not a short-term effect but long-term transformation.

"We are building an energy system that will be resilient to crises, flexible to future challenges and aligned with European standards, but also one that ensures energy security now and for generations to come. Today, we are speaking about megawatts and infrastructure, but also sovereignty, responsibility and vision, a country that builds its future with confidence," underlined PM Mickoski.

Photo and video: Government