Albania has shown its commitment to green energy by launching its first tender for onshore wind power plants. The country wants to install 100 MW total capacity but it may increase to 150 MW. Successful bidders will be announced in 2023.
Interested bidders are expected to put in their applications by June 2022, after which selected entries will be invited to submit proposals. Each bidder can submit proposals for installed capacities between 10 and 75 MW.
Support from EBRD
Albania is being supported by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development in the execution of the renewable energy project.
As part of their proposals, bidders will select suitable sites for the wind power plant project. They can however can use data from a wind siting report that will be made available to them. The report includes areas excluded from consideration. There will be a conference for interested bidders to request for any clarifications and other requirements later this year.
Matteo Colangeli, EBRD Head of Western Balkans, said: “We are delighted with the progress Albania is making on scaling up wind and solar energy through open and transparent tenders. This is another milestone for the diversification, resilience and sustainable development of the country’s energy sector.”
EBRD has invested more than 1.5 billion Euros in 112 projects in Albania.
Other renewable energy project in Albania
While this is the first wind power project for Albania, the country has been active in the renewable energy scene. With the support of EBRD, it has already awarded contracts for solar photovoltaic installations in Karavasta and Spitalle, with total capacities of 140 MW and 100 MW respectively.
The solar projects had set Albania on the path to diversifying its energy sources, away from hydropower and other sources that are carbon emission producing. It has benefitted consumers as the cost of solar power is less than usual. The new wind power projects will further solidify Albania’s push for cleaner power.
Additional support from SECO
Albania will get assistance from the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) in terms of funds for technical resources and requirements during the tender. The Swiss body will also assist in setting up regulatory framework for the energy sector for introducing auctions.
Françoise Salamé Guex, Infrastructure Financing Division, SECO Switzerland, said regarding Albania’s wind power tender: “We are proud to support the Government of Albania in developing the country’s wind power market. The launch of the wind tender is an important milestone in attracting private-sector competition to the renewable energy sector in Albania, which is a critical step in transitioning to a diversified low-carbon economy.”