North Macedonia is facing unplanned electricity imports for the next two weeks, sourcing power from Slovenian state-owned companies and other traders. State-owned utility ESM has initiated a tender for electricity purchases due to current issues with its power plants.
The newly appointed management revealed delays in summer overhauls of the TPP Bitola and TPP Oslomej plants, compounded by a poor hydrological situation, with reservoirs falling below average levels for this time of year—a result of inadequate management in recent months.
To address these challenges, ESM plans to use imported electricity to improve coal mines and hydro reservoirs and to conduct necessary plant overhauls, ensuring reliable electricity production, especially during the upcoming heating season.
ESM accepted bids from five companies for electricity supply. In the first lot, 15,600 MWh was requested with a baseload capacity of 50 MW from September 18 to 30. The second lot sought 19,500 MWh with a capacity of 100 MW for the same period, from 09:00 to 24:00.
The accepted bids include:
- GEN-I: 15,600 MWh at €102.35/MWh for the first lot.
- HSE MAK Energy: 4,875 MWh at €117.60/MWh for the second lot.
- Future Energy: 3,900 MWh at €118.29/MWh.
- GEN-I: An additional 7,800 MWh at €118.69/MWh.
- Infinit Energy: 2,925 MWh at €119.82/MWh.
These imports are critical for maintaining electricity production in the coming weeks as the country navigates its energy supply challenges.
