Today, USAID’s Development of Regional Energy Markets Project, the Government of Republic of Macedonia and the Energy Regulatory Commission signed a Memorandum of Understanding that will facilitate technical assistance by USAID to harmonize Macedonian energy legislation with the European Union’s energy regulations. Earlier this year, USAID assisted with the development of the new Energy Law, adopted by the Government of Macedonia in May. Through the project, USAID is also providing technical assistance to the Ministry of Economy and the Energy Regulatory Commission to develop relevant by-laws for the new Energy Law to be operational and implementable in practice.

Speaking at the Memorandum of Understanding, U.S. Ambassador to Macedonia Jess Baily noted, “Diversification of its energy supply will insulate Macedonia from energy disruptions and a dependence on a single external supplier. It will strengthen Macedonia’s energy security.” The energy reform envisioned through this cooperation will set up a legal framework for the full liberalization of the electricity market, integration into regional energy markets, and better quality of services for households and industry in Macedonia. Starting from 2019, businesses and households will have the opportunity to choose an electricity supplier, and change suppliers, if they are dissatisfied with the services provided. The new Energy Law also establishes grounds for further diversification of energy supply and introduces new market-based incentive schemes to stimulate investment and production of renewable energy. “I applaud the government’s commitment to pursuing a European agenda and to fully implement reforms in the domestic energy sector.  As always, the United States is your partner in these efforts, and will continue to be in the future,” said Ambassador Baily.

USAID’s Development of Regional Energy Markets Project is implemented by Tetra Tech ES Inc. Arlington, USA (USAID contractor), and ACT! Consultancy Services Ltd. Skopje (subcontractor). The project started in Macedonia in December 2017, and is focused on the provision of technical assistance and capacity building to assist the Government of Macedonia to comply with European Union energy policies and regulations.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

The American people, through USAID, have invested more than $640 million in Macedonia since 1993. USAID is working with the people of Macedonia to create jobs, strengthen democratic institutions and practices, and enhance integrated education. USAID provides economic and humanitarian assistance in more than 100 countries. For more information visit http://macedonia.usaid.gov and USAID FB page http://www.facebook.com/USAIDMacedonia