North Macedonia eyes closer cooperation with Azerbaijan in renewable energy

North Macedonia sees strong potential for cooperation with Azerbaijan in renewable energy, gas supplies, and technology transfer, according to Sanja Bozinovska, the country’s Minister of Energy, Mining and Mineral Resources.

“The most promising areas are renewable energy, energy infrastructure, and technology transfer,” Bozinovska said in an interview with Report. “Our country has limited domestic hydrocarbon resources, which makes renewable sources and secure access to natural gas especially important. Cooperation with Azerbaijan can bring tangible benefits in diversifying supply and supporting our energy transition.”

She underlined that North Macedonia’s priorities align with the Green Agenda and the Paris Agreement’s obligations on emissions reduction.

“Equally important is collaboration in renewable energy sources and technology transfer,” she noted.

The minister highlighted Azerbaijan’s decisive role in the Southern Gas Corridor, calling it a lifeline for energy security in Southeast and Central Europe, especially after Russia halted gas deliveries through Ukraine on January 1, 2025.

“The Southern Gas Corridor is essential for strengthening gas security and supply reliability in the region,” Bozinovska said. “As a country, we are strongly interested in purchasing Azerbaijani gas for industrial, commercial, and household use. Azerbaijan has already proven itself as a reliable partner, and its role will grow further in ensuring stability and diversification of supply for our region.”

Asked about renewable energy integration, she stressed that North Macedonia values Azerbaijan’s expertise.

“The potential for cooperation is substantial, especially in solar and wind,” she said. “Our country recognizes the value of Azerbaijan's experience in integrating renewable energy sources into the national energy system and is open to cooperation that would contribute to strengthening its own capacities in this strategic area.”

She added that bilateral cooperation could extend to joint renewable projects, technology transfer, and fostering a favorable regulatory and investment climate.

Regarding the Black Sea Energy submarine cable project, Bozinovska said North Macedonia is not directly involved but closely monitoring developments.

“The project is highly strategic as it strengthens Europe–Caucasus connectivity. North Macedonia is not a direct participant due to distance constraints, but follows the initiative with great interest," she added.

According to official figures, the country’s installed renewable capacity as of 2024 includes 848 MW of photovoltaic power, 82 MW of wind, 720 MW of hydropower, 12 MW of biogas, and 1 MW of biomass. Interest in renewables has surged in recent years, with 1,201 new plants built over the past four years, including 345 photovoltaic facilities in 2024 alone.

“This trend has led to a notable shift in the structure of domestic electricity production,” Bozinovska said, underscoring North Macedonia’s determination to accelerate its green transition.

By Sabina Mammadli