North Macedonia has officially launched its intraday electricity trading platform, marking a significant advancement in its efforts to integrate with the European electricity market. This new system enables market participants to engage in electricity transactions on the actual delivery day, enhancing their ability to manage supply-demand imbalances effectively.
The introduction of this trading mechanism is anticipated to bolster overall system efficiency, minimize balancing costs, and enhance real-time management of the national power grid. Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski has characterized this development as a clear indication that ongoing reforms within the energy sector are yielding tangible outcomes. He noted that prioritizing energy security and system resilience is critical, particularly in light of increasing price volatility and fluctuations in regional markets.
According to Energy Minister Sanja Božinovska, the intraday platform represents just one phase of a comprehensive market integration process. The government plans to pursue further development of trading mechanisms, enhance regional electricity cooperation, and gradually align itself with European market coupling systems.
Zoran Gjorgievski, director of MEMO, emphasized that this new trading segment introduces essential real-time market functionality, promoting greater price transparency through competitive trading practices. However, he cautioned that forthcoming EU climate policies, particularly the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), might impose additional challenges for local producers and could affect market liquidity if not implemented thoughtfully.
The platform was developed through collaboration between MEMO and BSP, utilizing the advanced M7 trading system from Deutsche Börse. Officials have expressed optimism that the launch of intraday trading will not only enhance market efficiency but also strengthen regional connectivity and support North Macedonia’s long-term objectives regarding its energy transition and EU integration aspirations.
