North Macedonia’s state-owned power company ESM plans to open a new coal mine in Zivojno, near the Greek border. The Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning has announced that ESM is currently collecting public feedback on the environmental impact assessment for the project. The consultation period is open until May 15.
Local reports indicate that mining operations are expected to begin in 2026 after a three-year preparation phase. However, the mine’s operational life is projected to be short, lasting only about four years.
This development comes despite the country’s energy transition plan, which includes closing its last two coal-fired power plants, Bitola and Oslomej, by 2030. The decision to open a new mine highlights the ongoing struggle to balance immediate energy demands with longer-term sustainability goals.
