European bank for reconstruction and development (EBRD) and Macedonian electricity transmission system operators (TSO) AD MEPSO published an invitation for expressions of interest offers to provide consultant services for the FYR Macedonia – Albania Transmission line Phase 1 project.

The consultancy contract is expected to start on 1 May 2018 and to last about 40 months while funding is provided by EBRD, the Bank said in a procurement notice.

EBRD and MEPSO invite interested companies to apply not later than 22 December 2017.

FYR Macedonia (FYRM) – Albania Transmission line project will enable AD MEPSO to construct the Macedonian portion of the planned 400 kV cross-border electricity interconnection between FYRM and Albania, the first interconnection between the two countries, and the introduction of grid efficiency improvements to the MEPSO.

“AD MEPSO established a Project Implementation Unit (PIU) and intends to engage a consulting firm to provide organisational and technical assistance and services to the client to ensure the successful completion of the Project in accordance with the Project Implementation Plan (PIP) and with all EBRD requirements stipulated in the Loan Agreement,”, notice said.

The transmission line Bitola (Macedonia) – Elbasan (Albania) is first electricity interconnector two countries.

The project, worth EUR 49 million, will provide crucial cross-border infrastructure, delivering transition impact through the expansion of competitive market interactions and setting standards for corporate governance and business conduct.