The removal of two small hydropower plants has begun in Šar Mountain National Park in North Macedonia.
A complex operation is underway to dismantle and remove the pipelines from the Pena 84 and Pena 85 small hydropower plants (SHPPs) in the Lešnica valley, the national park’s administration said.
The operation is the result of a long and dedicated institutional process in which the national park authorities consistently presented expert and legal arguments and nature conservation concerns to all competent institutions, with a clear goal of protecting the Lešnica valley and preserving the natural values of the Šar Mountains.
The park’s position has always been clear and based on the legal framework and expert documents, the public institution explained.
The construction of new hydropower plants is not permitted in any protection zone of the national park
The management plan for the park prohibits the construction of new hydropower plants in any protection zone, as they represent one of the most serious threats to natural values and river ecosystems.
The Lešnica valley is an area of exceptional natural value, part of the future Natura 2000 network and an Emerald area, and its protection represents both a national and an international obligation, the update reads.
The park has requested the restoration of the Pena River to its natural state
At the same time, the park has requested the restoration of the Pena River to its natural state, which involves the complete dismantling of the installed pipelines and their removal outside the park’s boundaries, as well as the removal of concrete structures and gradual restoration of the natural river ecosystem.
“This is a success for the institutions, for all those who believe that nature deserves protection, but also for the citizens, hikers, scientists, associations, and lovers of the Šar Mountains who have supported this commitment for years,” the park stressed.
However, the work is not yet finished.
“We have another important step ahead of us – the complete removal of the last pipe and the final return of the Lešnica to where it belongs – nature. So, stay with us. We will soon share the moment when the last pipe leaves the valley,” the park added.
