MEPSO Advances Strategic 400 kV Interconnection Project for Energy Community Priority Status

North Macedonia’s electricity transmission system operator, MEPSO, has officially nominated the “400 kV East–West Interconnection Corridor – Western Section” for inclusion in the prestigious list of Projects of Energy Community Interest (PECI). This strategic move aims to solidify the project’s status as a regional priority, facilitating cross-border energy cooperation and bolstering the stability of the Balkan power grid.

A Vital Link in the Regional Energy Spine

The nominated western section focuses on establishing a high-capacity link between Tetovo in North Macedonia and Prizren in Kosovo. This infrastructure is a critical component of a broader corridor designed to integrate the networks of Turkey, Bulgaria, Greece, North Macedonia, Kosovo*, Albania, and Montenegro.

Key specifications of the project include:

• Total Length: Approximately 255 kilometers.

• Primary Objective: Connecting the capital, Skopje, and the city of Ohrid via Tetovo, while providing a robust cross-border link to Kosovo*.

• Capacity Upgrade: Replacing the current single 220 kV link between North Macedonia and Kosovo with a modern 400 kV interconnection.

Infrastructure and Operational Enhancements

The project involves a series of interrelated investments beyond simple transmission lines. MEPSO has outlined plans for significant substation developments to manage increased load and ensure operational flexibility:

• Tetovo Substation: A new 400/110 kV facility will serve as a central hub for multiple high-voltage lines, significantly strengthening the transmission capacity in Western North Macedonia.

• Oslomej Substation: Another 400/110 kV facility is planned for Oslomej. This location is particularly strategic as it transitions from a traditional coal-fired power site to a hub for new renewable energy projects.

Strategic Significance and Regional Synergy

MEPSO emphasizes that this investment is highly complementary to existing regional efforts, specifically the approved PECI project to upgrade the line between Prizren (Kosovo) and Fierza (Albania) to 400 kV. This synergy will create a seamless high-voltage path connecting North Macedonia, Kosovo*, and Albania.

This regional integration was further solidified last year (2025) through a Memorandum of Understanding signed between MEPSO and KOSTT (Kosovo’s Transmission, System and Market Operator).

“Achieving PECI status is a recognition of the project’s pronounced regional relevance. It directly contributes to the Energy Community’s objectives of secure, sustainable electricity supply and the efficient integration of renewable energy sources.” — MEPSO Statement

Timeline and Next Steps

The selection process for the second PECI list follows a rigorous biannual cycle. With the call for nominations having closed on January 19, the final list is expected to receive official approval by December 31, 2026.

Projects granted PECI status benefit from streamlined permitting processes and enhanced access to regulatory and financial support, accelerating the region’s progress toward decarbonization and a unified energy market.