To support the green transition in Kosovo*, the European Investment Bank (EIB) has signed a €33 million investment loan for the construction one of its largest solar photovoltaic plants near Pristina - with a capacity of up to 100 MWac (120MWp). By increasing the capacity and share of solar energy in power generation, the project will contribute to energy supply security, a faster green transition and economic growth in the region. Upon completion, the plant is expected to produce around 169 GWh of electricity and displace 174 000 tonnes of CO2 a year on average.

The investment benefits from Team Europe support, enabling the allocation of a €32 million EU grant channelled through the Western Balkans Investment Framework for the project’s preparation and implementation. The grant will be combined with loans from the EIB (€33 million) and KfW (€29 million), which will implement the project under the Mutual Reliance Initiative aiming to increase the effectiveness of combined financing and expertise.

EIB Vice-President Kyriacos Kakouris, who is responsible for the Bank’s activities in the Western Balkans, said that as one of the largest renewable energy developments in the region under Team Europe, this project will help Kosovo achieve its energy security and renewable energy goals. 

"Together with the European Commission and other partners, we are glad to be able to jointly help Kosovo lay the groundwork for the decarbonisation of the local economy and diversification of the energy mix, in line with the EU Green Agenda”, he underlined.

Meanwhile, Kosovo’s Minister of Finance, Labour and Transfers Hekuran Murati said that the signing of this agreement for the construction of the photovoltaic plant is a landmark moment as Kosovo advances its initiatives to secure renewable energy use for its citizens. According to him, this project, the largest of its kind in the region, not only guarantees a sustainable energy production method but also accelerates Kosovo's shift from conventional energy sources.

Speaking on the project, the Head of Political Section at the EU Office in Kosovo AnnaCarin Platon stated that investing in Kosovo's renewable energy infrastructure is not just a strategic decision; it's a commitment to a sustainable future for generations to come. 

"The launch of one of the largest renewable energy developments in the region under Team Europe marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts towards green energy transition and economic growth, as well as job creation and skills development in the Western Balkans" she concluded.