Could solar power reduce Albania's reliance on energy imports?

Albanian researchers say that solar could be key to reducing Albania’s reliance on energy imports, but the nation will need to invest in grid infrastructure, streamline laws, and enhance access to funding to support deployment.

Are energy imports a problem in Albania?

Energy imports do not only have an adverse impact on the country’s trade deficit, but they also pose significant risks to the country’s energy security. Today, Albania remains a net energy importer as domestic energy production is not able to meet demand.

Is Albania a net energy importer?

Today, Albania remains a net energy importer as domestic energy production is not able to meet demand. When it comes to renewable energy imports, Eurostat data shows that the country ranks 8 th in Europe.

Does Albania have a national strategy of energy?

Albania’s Ministry of Energy recently launched an auction round for the construction of the country’s first large-scale solar plant. The country also has a National Strategy of Energy, which aims to develop an effective energy sector that guarantees secur

Is solar a viable alternative to electricity in Albania?

A move toward more solar is partly an attempt to diversify Albania’s electricity sources. In “ Evaluation and integration of photovoltaic (PV) systems in Albanian energy landscape,” which was recently published in Solar Compass, the scientists said that solar is an adaptable and affordable alternative, given Albania’s sunny climate.

Does Albania need a diversified energy production mix?

The government of Albania seems to have already acknowledged the need for a diversified energy production mix. The Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, Belinda Balluku, has repeatedly highlighted that one of the key pillars of focus is the national strategy on energy diversification.