FEDERATION OF BIH: CITIZENS SHOW STRONG INTEREST IN BECOMING PROSUMERS

27.01.2024

solar-panels-solani-paneli — Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay (Admiral Lebioda)

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Asia Chang Yr)

Citizens of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) are very interested in the construction of solar panels, that is, in becoming prosumers, according to the research carried out by the Renewable Energy Sources and Efficient Cogeneration Operator (OIEiEK Operator).

In the survey, which was conducted from early September to late December 2023, as many as 97.3 percent of the surveyed citizens showed interest in the construction of the mentioned power plants.

The greatest interest was shown in the area of Herzegovina-Neretva Canton (19.8 percent), followed by Sarajevo Canton with 19.6 percent and Zenica-Doboj Canton with 16.1 percent.

If citizens were provided with a one-time financial support/subsidy for a certain percentage amount of the value of the investment, even 99 percent of respondents would be determined to become prosumer. When it comes to the amount of support, on average 50 percent of the total value of the investment would be sufficient.

Citizens cited the lack of financial resources as the biggest obstacle, as well as unclear and complicated procedures for obtaining the required permits. Also, there is a long processing of applications submitted to relevant institutions. Furthermore, the survey showed that there is insufficient information about the procedures for investing in the construction of solar power plants, i.e. becoming a prosumer, that is, about the advantages that investing in the construction of these power plants would bring, according to the OIEiEK website.

494 respondents participated in the research by filling out an electronic questionnaire on the OIEiEK Operator website. This research was conducted to collect data on the interest in investing in construction, that is, collecting data on the views of the citizens of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina on one-time financial support for the construction of solar power plants, i.e. prosumers, because this is one of the new responsibilities of the OIEiEK Operator resulting from the new Law on the Use of Renewable Energy Sources and Efficient Cogeneration, precisely the implementation of this one-time co-financing.

The OIEiEK Operator will, with the prior consent of the Government of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, adopt the Programme on co-financing of individual prosumers, which will prescribe the procedure for one-time co-financing of the construction of prosumer facilities from this category. It will determine the method of awarding such assistance, the amount, criteria and other important provisions.

This research was significant because the results will be taken into account when determining the amount of one-time co-financing. Also, based on the answers that indicate a lack of information about the procedures and advantages of this kind of investment, the OIEiEK Operator envisages holding educational workshops and joint meetings with representatives of cantonal ministries, local communities and the media in its 2024 Work Plan, but the plan also envisages a public campaign to inform the public about the benefits of such investments. Finally, activities were initiated to make the procedures equal for all citizens but also simplified in terms of obtaining permits.

Energy portal

TO ENERGY INDEPENDENCE WITH LUXEN SOLAR

27.01.2024

Luxen Solar’s solar panels are top-quality, reliable products with longer warranties than standard, with exceptional performance that enables a faster return on investment while providing energy security by producing clean energy. Alisa Papadimitriou, Business Development Director for Europe, spoke with Energy Portal Magazine about Luxen Solar.

Q: When was Luxen Solar founded and which markets do you operate in?

A: Luxen Solar was founded in Spain in 2005. Its name comes from the word “lux” which means light and the word “energy”, which, in our case, is energy from sunlight. We opened the first production facility in 2011, which has been fully automated since 2015. Today, Luxen Solar EUROPE is headquartered in Austria and we are currently building a second zero-emission production plant, where we will produce solar panels using new revolutionary technologies. Our main market is Europe, but we also sell our products in Latin America, Asia, Africa and Australia.

Q: What are the company’s best-selling products?

A: In our product range we have solar panels for residential, industrial and commercial buildings and utility-scale projects. These include standard, bifacial and all-black modules.

The best-selling products at the moment are the 430 Wp TOPCon and the 575 Wp TOPCon. In bifacial version, solar panels have 15 per cent more bifaciality, which is higher than conventional ones, are smaller in surface area, but are more efficient per m2 compared to the current mono-perc technology. For example, our 630 Wp TOPCon module is by 9 Wp more efficient per m2 than conventional 670 Wp mono perc. One may look at the numbers and think 630 is less efficient than 670, but it’s efficiency per m2 that matters.

IN FOCUSE:

Our TOPCon solar panels can produce up to 2 h more per day due to exceptional performance in low light conditions. Our TOPCon modules can withstand a snow load of 6200 Pa and 4200 Pa of wind load and also a 30mm hail ball at a speed of 23,9 m/s, which are exceptional results in comparison to the standard on the market (5400/2400 Pa and 25mm at 23 m/s speed).

Q: What are the advantages of Luxen Solar panels?

A: Luxen Solar has around two decades of experience in solar panel research and development. We always follow the latest trends in the industry and our efforts and work are recognized. We are the winners of more than 15 prestigious awards, among others, as one of the most innovative and influential brands in the solar industry.

We constantly monitor developments in solar energy and strive to offer our customers the latest technology and thus be safe and reliable partners. Outdated technologies cannot provide the desired performance, while advanced technology is very expensive, both of which, in their own way, slow down the return on investment. Luxen Solar has found the golden mean – we provide customers with a faster return on investment with affordable and innovative technology with best cost-benefit analysis.

Q: Could you tell us about your business model?

A: The Luxen Solar Company has a clear goal to achieve long-term partnerships in every country in which it operates. We establish these partnerships with companies that share the same vision and passion for cutting-edge technology and at the same time want a reliable, stable and honest partner who can help them develop and advance in business. We are here to offer them 24/7 support, the most innovative technology, exceptional products with better characteristics than the conventional products on the market, and last but not least, loyalty.

Interviewed by: Milica Radičević

Read the story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine ESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

ANOTHER “LIQUID TREE” ON THE STREETS OF BELGRADE

26.01.2024

611b4aadcdf4e6a48d56f43e6870c165_9040609106 — Photo: City of Belgrade

The urban photo bioreactor called LIQUID 3, the first of its kind in Serbia, is an innovative biotechnological solution for combating air pollution in urban areas. The project was initiated and designed by the Institute for Multidisciplinary Research of the University of Belgrade and aims to reduce the emission of carbon dioxide (CO2) in places where the concentrations of this gas are the highest, including the capital city.

LIQUID 3 uses algae in a 600-litre aquarium, which, through photosynthesis, bind CO2 and produce oxygen.

The first LIQUID 3 was installed last year in front of the building that houses the Municipality of Stari Grad, with the second one installed in Terazije, according to the Belgrade government’s website.

In addition to its environmental role, the photo-bioreactor is also designed as a bench with chargers for mobile phones and a solar panel that enables night lighting.

Microalgae have a wide range of applications in Serbia, including wastewater treatment, biomass and biofuel production, but also as compost for green areas. What is so significant is the efficiency of microalgae in binding CO2, which can be up to 50 times higher than that of trees.

The LIQUID 3 project will not replace forests but will complement urban greenery where there is no space for planting trees.

This invention was recognized as one of the 11 best climate-smart solutions under the auspices of the Local Development Resistant to Climate Change project, implemented by UNDP in cooperation with the Ministry of Environmental Protection, with the support of the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

The LIQUID 3 initiative drew attention beyond the borders of Serbia, with over 10 million views on social networks.

Energy portal

Costs of industrial pollution from largest facilities decline in Europe but remain at two per cent of EU GDP

26.01.2024

emissions-elektrane-ugalj — Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

The 2024 update of the EEA briefing ‘The costs to health and the environment from industrial air pollution in Europe’ presents the latest assessment of the trends in externalities of industrial air pollution from about 10,000 largest facilities in Europe, from 2012 to 2021. These facilities report data on pollutant releases and transfers to the European Industrial Emissions Portal.

Costs of air pollution caused by Europe’s largest industrial plants are substantial, averaging between EUR 268 to EUR 428 billion per year, the EEA analysis shows. In 2021, these costs corresponded to about two per cent of the EU’s GDP. Just one percent (107) of the most polluting industrial facilities — many of them coal power plants — caused half of the total damage.

However, the EEA analysis also shows that environmental and health costs of European industry have decreased by a third (-33 per cent) from 2012 to 2021. The EU energy sector has accounted for the vast majority — about 80 per cent — of the total decrease, mainly by adopting best available techniques (BAT) and shifting to renewables and less polluting fuels largely as result of EU action.

The European Green Deal has promoted making Europe’s industry greener and more digital. Most recently, the revision of the Industrial Emissions Directive and the new Industrial Emissions Portal Regulation (IEPR) aim to drive large European industry towards decarbonisation, zero pollution, circular economy and innovation. Strengthening of the EU Air Quality Directive is expected to further support this development by bringing pollution limits closer to the health-based guidelines of the World Health Organization.

The EEA will publish the 2nd zero-pollution monitoring and outlook report together with the European Commission later this year. To highlight the challenges and opportunities in the EU energy transition, this year’s report will map the 100 most polluting large combustion plants (LCP) in the EU.

Source: EEA

800 CHARGERS ON PUBLIC LIGHTING IN PRAGUE BY 2026

25.01.2024

elektropunjač — Photo-illustration: Unsplash (CHUTTERSNAP)

The average age of vehicles in the Czech Republic is higher compared to the rest of the European Union. According to data from 2023, the number of electric cars in this country was approximately 14,000, however, most drivers in the Czech Republic still use petrol and diesel vehicles.

In the first six months of 2022, diesel vehicles accounted for a larger share of new car sales in the Czech Republic than in any other EU country, while in the rest of the EU, sales of diesel- powered cars fell significantly. Electric cars in the Czech Republic are still quite expensive, while the average wage in the country is also somewhat lower compared to Western Europe. There is also an inadequate charging infrastructure, which makes their use for longer journeys difficult, as it requires detailed route planning.

The city of Prague currently provides free parking for electric cars in main city zones, but this privilege will be abolished on December 31, 2024, which does not mean that the state will not continue to invest in electromobility. This change is part of the upcoming reform of the parking system in Prague, according to the city’s website.

Given that the number of e-vehicles will inevitably grow and that they take up as much space as other cars, this rule will not be able to survive in the long run, hence its abolition.

However, the city will continue to invest in charging infrastructure and therefore plans to increase investments in electric chargers with the help of European subsidies. The city of Prague has already spent about CZK 220 million on developing charging infrastructure and the plan is to install about 800 charging points on public lighting by 2026.

Energy portal

SET TREBINJE 2024 FROM MARCH 20th TO 22nd

24.01.2024

The 5th SET Trebinje Energy Summit will be held this year from March 20 to 22 under the slogan “Energy Connectivity of the Western Balkans”, at the Trebinje Cultural Centre.

The summit is organized under the auspices of the Ministry of External Trade and Economic Relations of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Republic of Srpska government and the Republic of Srpska Ministry of Energy and Mining and the Ministry of Economy and Entrepreneurship. Elnos Group Banja Luka is the Summit’s main sponsor.

The increasing share of renewable sources in the production of electricity and at the same time their influence on the power system place increasing demands for the accelerated development of the system itself. At the same time, due to the increasing decentralized production of electricity in the immediate vicinity of the consumers or by consumers themselves, it becomes difficult for the suppliers to satisfy the ever-changing supply and demand. It is precisely in this connection that concepts and technical solutions such as energy storage, microgrids, demand adjustment and energy efficiency measures are increasingly coming to the fore.

During the three summit days, the participants will have the opportunity to discuss key questions regarding the energy future with almost 50 leaders from the power industry in the regional countries, who will participate in seven panel discussions. All relevant representatives of the energy sector in the region, executives from top domestic companies and institutions that shape the industry, business leaders and creators of energy policies, as well as top domestic and international energy experts will take part in the Summit.

“This year’s programme covers the topics of connection and cooperation of power companies in the region, management of power grids, electricity trading, gas market, management of electricity production facilities and management of own solar power plants. The most prestigious regional energy experts will speak about these topics, while several other extremely important topics related to the further development and just transition of the energy sector in the region will be discussed through presentations”, said the Summit’s organizers.

The Trebinje Energy Summit is an excellent opportunity for cooperation between public power companies, authorities and technology providers with the view of exchanging information and knowledge to understand the future of energy and see where the world is going in terms of sustainability.

During three days, the Summit will host over 1,000 participants from the region, which testifies to the great interest in the Summit shown by the energy stakeholders. Furthermore, a number of companies have also expressed their interest in participating in this year’s Summit, as this is an ideal opportunity to establish contact with potential business partners.

Source: Energy Portal

THE FUTURE OF GREEN CONSTRUCTION

24.01.2024

gene-gallin-E6KM98Q_d4o-unsplash — Photo-illustration: Unsplash/Gene Gallin

At a time when the world is facing increasingly pronounced challenges caused by climate change, sustainable green construction is a key component of their solution. This is not only about buildings that look modern and, at first glance, exist in harmony with nature but about buildings which, at their core, reflect a much deeper understanding of ecology, energy, and responsible construction.

The Croatian Green Building Council (GBC) is the largest non-governmental and membership organization in Croatia. It deals with sustainable construction, energy efficiency and green energy. It is also engaged in the business network of the companies and organizations that are green transition leaders. The GBC has over 130 members from construction, energy, public administration and the academic community, and its main goal is to help its members and other relevant market players act in the direction of a sustainable, urban way of life. The GBC achieves this goal through education, networking and promotion.

According to certain recently published estimates, buildings in the European Union (EU) produce approximately 40 per cent of emissions. They are huge energy consumers responsible for 35 per cent of construction material consumption and 35 per cent of waste generation in the same sector. That’s why buildings have the greatest potential for savings and are a key point in the EU’s interest in becoming climate-neutral by 2050.

Given that the Croatian Green Building Council is one of the important organizations in promoting sustainable practices in the region, we got more specific insights into this issue in our conversation with the Council. We spoke with its Executive Director, Dean Smolar, about the challenges and solutions, as well as the Council’s future initiatives.

IN FOCUS:

A part of a wider network

With 76 countries worldwide and over 36,000 members, the World Green Building Council (WGBC) is the largest and most influential global network aiming to promote a sustainable and decarbonized environment for all. The Croatian Green Building Council is part of this network, as well as the European Regional Network of Green Building Councils (ERN). Through global connectivity, common goals are accomplished through various local, regional and world projects. The Croatian Green Building Council actively participates in projects financed from national and European sources, where, as partners, they have the opportunity to demonstrate their capabilities.

The Croatian Green Building Council acts as a platform for promoting the positive impact of sustainable construction and everything that goes with it. It rests on four organizational pillars – membership, events, projects, and certification.

“In addition to membership, GBC successfully organizes various educational events and conferences, workshops, and symposiums, which more than 10,000 participants have attended. Everything functions as a single platform for primarily national networking of policymakers and industry leaders and their exchange of ideas. Thus, in the last few years, GBC has been engaged in these segments as a key partner in numerous projects”, says Mr Smolar.

For the past year, they have been working a lot on developing the DGNB green building certificate, which is an abbreviation for the German Sustainable Building Council (Deutschen Gesellschaft für Nachhaltiges Bauen) and its version adapted to the Croatian market. They also organize training sessions about this certificate for future consultants as an official Academy Partner.

The DGNB certification system is the only one completely aligned with EU regulations and norms, so it does not require harmonization of documentation for the European market. The GBC is the DGNB’s partner in Croatia, i.e. the only organization in the country through which a project can be registered for certification. The DGNB brings not only a certification system but a vision of transformation of the construction industry. Founded in 2007 as an independent non-profit organization, it quickly gained a reputation as one of the most advanced international sustainable construction standards, with over 10,000 certified projects in nearly 30 countries.

Prepared by: Milica Vučković

Read the story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine CIRCULAR ECONOMY

CROATIA GENERATED THE NEEDED POWER FROM RENEWABLE SOURCES FOR FOUR DAYS

23.01.2024

windmills-vetar-vetroelektrana — Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay (Pexels)

In December 2023, Croatia made a significant step forward in generating electricity from renewable sources, which had a 19.5 per cent share in the total available electricity, excluding hydroelectric plants, thus ranking first when it comes to the production of electricity in this country.

This was made possible, among other things, with the construction of solar power plants, which in that period, recorded the largest increase in capacity among all power-generated technologies in the power system, although they still do not have such a significant share as that of wind, for instance. By January 1, 2024, the installed capacity of solar power plants reached 462.5MW, with an additional 238.7MW put into operation in 2023, according to the RES Croatia website.

Hydropower plants still play a dominant role in the production of electricity, as they accounted for the largest share of the total energy mix in the previous month as well.

In terms of the country’s energy landscape, it is important to mention the Krško nuclear power plant, whose energy production accounts for about 15 per cent of the total share, as was the case in December.

After hydropower plants, wind farms play a significant role in electricity generation and this was particularly evident in December 2023. The total installed power of wind farms amounted to 1,160.15MW, with the new Bruvno 45MW power plant commissioned. The total production of wind power plants this month was 243,901MWh.

For example, 43.5 per cent of electricity for domestic electricity consumption on December 15th was generated by RES, excluding hydropower plants, and with the overwhelmingly largest share of wind energy. It is important to note that in this period, wind is the dominant RES in electricity production due to weather conditions. The share of wind energy in electricity generation drops in the summer, which is why it is important to develop solar energy, which reaches its peak during the summer.

For balancing purposes, Croatia had to carry out a significant exchange of electricity at interconnections, with imports of 95GWh and exports of 148GWh.

Energy portal

BALKAN SOLAR SUMMIT IN FEBRUARY IN BANJA LUKA

23.01.2024

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Michael_Pointner)

The Balkan Solar Summit will take place from February 7 to 9 in Banja Luka, in Banski Dvor. This top event is a unique opportunity to meet, network and exchange ideas with leading experts, investors, decision makers and representatives of the business community from across the region.

The Balkan Solar Summit is a hub for everyone who is engaged in the renewable energy sources sector. The summit will discuss the latest trends and innovations in solar and wind energy, energy storage, as well as other key aspects of energy transition and sustainability.

The Summit programme includes a series of panel discussions, presentations and workshops, with a focus on innovative approaches, strategies and technologies that are key to the transition to a sustainable energy future. The highlighted topics include the role of solar energy in achieving carbon neutrality, the financing of solar and wind energy projects and the development and implementation of battery systems for energy storage.

Participating in the Balkan Solar Summit gives you the opportunity to keep up with the latest trends, learn about innovative solutions and strategies and build valuable business contacts. This is an ideal opportunity to directly influence your business growth and development in the dynamic renewable energy sector.

Don’t miss the opportunity to be a part of this extraordinary event! For more information about the event, click here and reserve your place by paying a registration fee.

Source: Balkan Solar Summit

SEF 2024: REGIONAL ENERGY BOOM IN SARAJEVO, 30th AND 31st JANUARY

22.01.2024

Sarajevo Energy Forum (SEF) has become a recognizable brand and a renowned sustainable energy forum with regional stakeholders in the energy sector, from government and educational institutions to experts who are knowledgeable of trends and can offer ideas on how to improve businesses and systems in the service of the development of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region.

This year’s SEF will be held on January 30th and 31st at the Hills Hotel in Ilidža. Distinguished panelists will speak at the conference about the opportunities that sustainable energy can create for the economy in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region.

One of the important topics that will be discussed will be the unhindered export of goods to the EU, considering that from January 1st, 2026, companies will have to pay expensive taxes on CO₂ emissions. This poses a big challenge as there is a possibility that many businesses will no longer be sustainable. Hence, the public and private sectors must react in a timely manner and be prepared.

SEF 2024 will offer answers to questions such as what are the lines of support and subsidies, the best ways to finance projects and how to prepare and secure your certificates of origin and green certificates in the easiest way. The Forum will also discuss the most important issue for the development of RES, which is ensuring stable grids for all those who are waiting to be connected to a power grid, as well as a presentation on research on the flexibility of power grids and measures to increase their capacity.

On behalf of the German government, GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit) supports the decarbonization of the electric power sector in the Western Balkans and in this regard also supports the second panel discussion on the development of smart power grids and electricity metres for the distribution and transmission of electricity in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region to jointly work on creating an energetically strong region.

A special panel will be dedicated to responsible companies and how to build and improve their own energy business, how to ensure safe export of goods and how to connect with the best companies in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region.

RIMAC ENERGY is a partner and gold sponsor of the Sarajevo Energy Forum 2024. This is a global company that has changed the perception of electric vehicles and is known for its continuous innovations. The company will take part in the SEF with its valuable contribution and knowledge of global trends in energy storage and battery production for large power systems, businesses and citizens.

Apart from global and regional companies, leading companies from Bosnia and Herzegovina will also take part such as HIFA-OIL, the general sponsor of SEF 2024. It will be interesting to hear their experiences about how virtual power plants help the development of renewable sources projects, how they ensure stable and secure purchase contracts, how they managed to complete the construction of the largest private photovoltaic power plant (of over 4,000MWh output) in the country and what are their plans for the future.

Also, companies that offer products or provide services related to this segment can participate in the Exhibitors’ Fair, which will last for two days of the Sarajevo Energy Forum SEF 2024.

The number of places for participation is limited and registrations are open for a few more days. For more information and reservation/application for participation in this prestigious forum, please click here.

SEF 2024 partners and sponsors are RIMAC ENERGY, HIFA-OIL, PV Smart Click, Solar Steelconstruction, Procredit Bank, Euro-Solar and many other renowned companies and institutions, which gives the Forum added value. The Sarajevo Energy Forum is a must-see event for energy companies.

Source: SEF Sarajevo

FROM JAMAICA TO THE SAHARA: THE STRUGGLE FOR WATER RESOURCES

22.01.2024

waves--talasi-more-voda — Photo illustration: Pixabay

Faced with the challenges of climate change and frequent droughts, people around the world are finding innovative ways to manage water resources. One such example comes from a rural settlement in Jamaica, where local residents use large rainwater collection tanks, connected by pipes to their roofs. This water is then used to irrigate agricultural crops, using a drip irrigation system. Jamaica’s example is just one of many global efforts to combat the looming water crisis.

Water scarcity is becoming an increasingly serious worldwide problem. It has been estimated that by 2025, about two-thirds of the world’s population could experience a lack of water, including regions in South and Central Asia, and North Africa, as well as in more developed countries such as the United States, which are the most affected, according to UNEP.

In South and Central Asia, water scarcity is a consequence of droughts, intensive agricultural activity and population that puts significant pressure on water resources. While there are periods of abundant rainfall in sub-Saharan Africa, infrastructure problems and limited access to clean water are still a major challenge and in many parts, wells need to be dug. This situation shows how even in areas with natural water resources, poor infrastructure and management cause problems, with population growth also contributing to this.

Communities around the world are turning to unconventional water sources. Methods such as mist collection, using treated wastewater and desalination – the process of removing salt from seawater to produce drinking water – are becoming increasingly popular. Countries such as the Bahamas, the Maldives and Malta already meet their water needs exclusively through desalination, as explained on the UNEP website.

However, such unconventional water sources come with certain challenges. Desalination requires significant investments in infrastructure and can have negative environmental consequences. Also, the use of wastewater requires precise technologies and policies to ensure safety and avoid potential infections.

In addition to finding new sources, more efficient management of existing water resources is also important.

As we wrote before, the World Resources Institute points out that a quarter of the world is population faces an extremely high level of water scarcity every year, despite using almost all available resources. The most vulnerable countries are those facing extreme levels of resource stress, meaning they are already using at least 80 percent of their water resources. These include Bahrain, Cyprus, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Egypt, Libya and others.

The population is growing, temperatures are getting higher and water supplies are dwindling, due to global warming and droughts. Since 1960, the water demand has more than doubled. In addition to population growth and climate change, economic growth is also boosting, thus increasing the industry and agriculture’s need for water.

Water resource management is becoming a key global challenge. Coordinated global and local solutions, innovations in technology and sustainable practices are needed to ensure the availability of water for future generations. Without these efforts, water problems will continue to worsen, which could have serious consequences for millions of people around the world.

Energy Portal

North macedonia: floating solar power plants in the national irrigation grid

22.01.2024

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Jordan McQueen)

The Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management of North Macedonia, Ljupčo Nikolovski, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Spain, H.E. Jose Luis Lozano Garcia and representatives of the consulting company Globatek signed a contract stipulating the implementation of a large-scale project related to irrigation of agricultural land.

Previously, on January 9, 2024, the Government of North Macedonia adopted the decree proposed by the Ministry for the provision of grant funds for drafting a technical study for the integration of floating photovoltaic plants into the national irrigation grid. The signing of the aforementioned agreement followed the decree’s adoption on January 9.

Minister Nikolovski says that the grant comes from the financial support available under the auspices of the European plan for recovery, transformation and resilience, which is supported by the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism of Spain, in the amount of 765,158.00 euros.

As stated on the Ministry’s website, the implementation of the planned activities is divided into several phases. The first phase envisages finding locations for the installation of floating photovoltaic plants. The second phase includes drafting a project and feasibility study, while the third phase envisages the development of project proposals for the installation of floating photovoltaic plants.

The Minister pointed out that this type of technology, along with the installation of floating photovoltaic devices, is already being used in several European countries, such as Spain and Belgium. Floating solar power plants are mainly used in the irrigation sector and managed by companies. This allows the agricultural sector to be more self-sufficient and sustainable.

He added that thanks to this project, the Ministry continued to invest in the development and modernization of the national agricultural irrigation system, thus directly helping each farmer.

Investing in water supply facilities is one of the key priorities in the Ministry’s work, with new dams and irrigation systems being built with both state and EU funds.

Energy Portal

Circular economy – think locally, act globally

21.01.2024

pexels-sarah-chai-7262469 — Photo-illustration: Pexels (Sarah Chai)

Global warming, environmental devastation and ecosystem pollution have contributed to actualizing the circularity concept. The circular economy (CE) seeks to replace the conventional linear model, as it assumes the reuse of waste as an input in the following production process.

In this regard, it is based on two principles: efficient management of resources and waste reduction.

In other words, CE encourages a more rational use of limited natural resources. It also results in lower pollution costs by reducing waste from production and consumption. The wide application of the circular economy in various segments of the economy contributes to accomplishing sustainable development goals.

Several prerequisites need to be met to implement CE effectively. To begin with, it is important to define the legal framework and institutional support. Second, innovations are significant for achieving circularity. Namely, this connection is like a two-way street because the further application of this principle promotes innovations and boosts micro and macro competitiveness. Third, there has to be communication and cooperation between companies, consumers and other stakeholders in all stages of the product life cycle. Finally, educating the population is an indispensable link in awakening environmental awareness and expanding ecological perspectives.

IN FOCUS:

Circular economy and eco-products

One of the main features of the circular economy is the creation of green (eco) products. Consequently, eco-products have a minimal environmental impact in all phases of the product’s life cycle. Also, green products must be clearly labelled and declared to identify and inform customers more easily. In general, eco-products differ from classic products in terms of their properties and added value for the consumers. The circular economy has various economic effects: it contributes to the development of new markets and distribution channels, and it facilitates the emergence of new business models and higher employment. In practice, recycling is often transformed through the circular economy process. However, recycling is only one of the segments of a much broader notion of this concept.

Many global economies, including the European Union, have accomplished significant results in circularity. On the other hand, Serbia is in the initial stages of development. In this regard, concrete steps and developments have been made in previous years. Last year, the Circular Economy Action Plan was written, stipulating nationwide activities and measures until 2024. Implementing this Action Plan is a kind of support for the green transition in the Republic of Serbia, as well as the accomplishment of the Green Agenda goals in the Western Balkans. In parallel with the Plan and cooperation with the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the Serbian Ministry of Environmental Protection selected nine projects following a public call to submit innovations in the circular economy. The common feature of the selected projects is the reduction of greenhouse gases, waste generation and disposal costs, and less environmental degradation. In addition to environmental aspects, some of the projects also have a social component, thus proving the initial premise of sustainability.

The transition from a linear to a circular model presupposes clearly defining its implementers. With that in mind, the main implementers in Serbia are, in most cases, corporations and large production systems, as well as small entrepreneurs whose importance is not negligible. Namely, despite local influence and small market share, small producers and new brands of eco-products not only have a lower ecological footprint and degrade the environment less but also contribute to more efficient waste management and rational use of resources, as the basic premises of CE.

Read the story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine CIRCULAR ECONOMY

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