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North Macedonian transmission system operator MEPSO nominated the project 400 kV East–West Interconnection Corridor – Western Section for the list of Projects of Energy Community Interest (PECI). It would connect Tetovo with Prizren.
MEPSO said it has applied for PECI status for the project 400 kV East–West Interconnection Corridor – Western Section. According to the North Macedonian transmission system operator, it is a recognition of the pronounced regional relevance of the endeavor and its direct contribution to achieving the objectives of the Energy Community, as well as national goals related to secure and sustainable electricity supply.
Projects of Energy Community Interest are priority plans for the electricity and gas sectors with a significant cross-border impact on more than one contracting party of the Energy Community.
The western section project envisages the construction of a 400 kV interconnection line between Tetovo in North Macedonia and Prizren in Kosovo* and the reinforcement of the internal transmission network, MEPSO explained. The corridor is seen connecting the capital Skopje and Ohrid via Tetovo, alongside the cross-border link. Total length of the section is estimated at 255 kilometers.
Substations planned for Tetovo, Oslomej
The endeavor consists of interrelated investments including the expansion and adaptation of existing lines. It involves a plan for a 400/110 kV substation in Tetovo, to serve as a central hub for multiple 400 kV lines and significantly strengthen transmission capacity in the western part of the country.
Another 400/110 kV facility would be built in Oslomej, the site of a coal power plant and renewable energy projects. One of the goals is to improve operational flexibility.
Regional dimension, complementarity
The Tetovo-Prizren interconnection will be important for connectivity between North Macedonia, Kosovo* and Albania, MEPSO stressed. The proposed investment is complementary to the already approved PECI project to upgrade the line between Prizren and Fierza to 400 kV.
MEPSO and Transmission, System and Market Operator (KOSTT) of Kosovo* signed a memorandum of understanding last year for the strategic project. There is now only one link between them, of 220 kV.
PECIs support the development of an integrated regional energy market, enhance the security and reliability of energy supply, and enable the efficient and secure integration of renewable energy sources, in line with decarbonization objectives and the broader energy transition, the North Macedonian TSO noted.
The biannual call lasted until January 19. The second PECI list needs to be approved by December 31.
The East-West power corridor would connect the networks of Turkey, Bulgaria, Greece, North Macedonia, Kosovo*, Albania and Montenegro.
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