Local authority in Skopje sets up 2.1 MW solar power partnership

One of the municipal authorities in the North Macedonian capital city of Skopje launched a public-private partnership for the country’s largest rooftop photovoltaic investment for public buildings.

The Municipality of Gjorche Petrov in Skopje is continuing to implement strategic projects aimed at sustainable development, energy efficiency and modern public resources management, according to the latest update from the local authority. It established a public-private partnership or PPP for the installation of photovoltaic systems of 2.1 MW overall on roofs of elementary schools.

Rooftop solar power is a no-brainer for educational institutions, given the vast available surfaces and the fact that they almost entirely operate in daytime.

The municipality, one of ten that make up North Macedonia’s capital, said the project is for the largest PV system on roofs of public buildings in the country.

Without identifying the partner, the local authority said the investment wouldn’t affect its budget whatsoever. Moreover, the solar modules will generate at least MKD 6 million (EUR 97,000) in revenue per year, the statement adds.

The municipality stressed that it would enable more investments in infrastructure, education and projects in citizens’ interest. It said the PPP was an example for other local authorities to follow.

“Our goal is an entirely energy-independent municipality with completely energy-efficient structures,” municipal head Aleksandar Stojkoski stated. By the end of the year, additional solar power panels will be installed on the municipality building, he asserted, stressing that electricity costs would be cut to a minimum.

The project for rooftop photovoltaics on schools is a significant step in the said efforts, the local authority pointed out.

Interestingly, the Sun is the main symbol on North Macedonia’s flag and coat of arms. The tiny country’s solar power capacity recently surpassed 1 GW,  so it hosts at least 558 W per person. It is two times more capacity than in Turkey, the champion in the Balkans in nominal terms. Yet, the level in Greece is above 1 kW for every inhabitant.