AlbaniaAlbania Plans Solar Auction
Albania's first solar-plus-storage auction is expected to take place by early 2027, following changes to the country's electricity law. The auction will be developed in cooperation with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
Global Newsflix 2 min read
Albania's Minister for Infrastructure and Energy, Enea Karakaçi, confirmed the government is preparing another auction to take place before the end of this year, or in early 2027.
The addition of storage into the next solar auction follows changes to the country's electricity law, which now facilitates the inclusion of battery energy storage systems into renewable energy projects.
The updated law, adopted in June, also allows producers to trade electricity in the free market.
Solar power now contributes to around 11% of Albania's annual electricity production, up from around zero three years ago, according to Karakaçi.
Albania has held four solar auctions to date, with the most recent one taking place in 2024, offering a total 300 MW.
The country's cumulative solar capacity reached 631 MW by the end of 2025, and it aims to become a net energy exporter by 2030.
The Albanian government also adopted amendments to its law governing agricultural land to allow agrivoltaics to be developed on specific categories of land.
Key facts
- Albania's first solar-plus-storage auction is expected to take place by early 2027.
- The auction will be developed in cooperation with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
- Solar power contributes to around 11% of Albania's annual electricity production.
- Albania's cumulative solar capacity reached 631 MW by the end of 2025.
Three perspectives
Neutral
The upcoming auction is a significant step towards Albania's goal of becoming a net energy exporter by 2030. The inclusion of battery storage will help improve the balance between electricity generation and demand. The country's renewable energy sector is expected to continue growing in the coming years.
Positive
The changes to Albania's electricity law and the inclusion of battery storage in the upcoming auction are positive developments for the country's renewable energy sector. This will help Albania reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and increase its energy independence.
Negative
The delay in implementing the changes to the electricity law and the slow pace of renewable energy development in Albania are concerns that need to be addressed. The country still has a long way to go to meet its renewable energy targets and become a net energy exporter.
Your week in news, every Wednesday
The biggest stories of the week for your edition, in your inbox every Wednesday morning, your time. Free, and you can unsubscribe at any time.