The Erseka Solar Park, located near Kolonja in southeastern Albania, has officially begun operations, according to local media reports. The new facility is expected to generate 50 GWh of electricity annually, based on information shared in a promotional video. This addition marks another significant step in Albania’s push for renewable energy, as the country continues to expand its solar capacity.
Prime Minister Edi Rama also shared the video, highlighting that the investment in the Erseka solar park is valued at €18 million. The project was developed by the companies Favina, Favina 1, and M&K Energy Trading. Initially, the developers had indicated that the first phase of the project, consisting of two 20 MW units, would cost around €30 million. The investors also secured international loans to support the project.
The solar park, situated near the village of Starje, features bifacial panels and tracking systems, both of which increase efficiency. The project is being developed on 102 hectares of leased land, and while it originally aimed for an 80 MW capacity, the latest update reveals plans for a 100 MW installation in total. This growth is supported by the government’s approval in 2022 for two 20 MW units.
As part of the agreement, the operator of the solar park will contribute 2% of its annual electricity production or provide equivalent financial compensation to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy. Additionally, the Municipality of Kolonja has already received €200,000 from the project. Over 100 local residents have been employed during the park’s construction and ongoing operation.
The electricity generated by the Erseka Solar Park will be sold on the international free market. The facility’s grid connection is facilitated through a planned 110/35 kV substation and a 110 kV power line, further integrating it into Albania’s energy infrastructure. This project is part of Albania’s broader efforts to expand renewable energy capacity and decrease its reliance on traditional energy sources.
