Albania's photovoltaic and wind power potential exceeds 7GW

    According to estimates by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Albania’s cost-effective solar Off Grid Solar Generator System and wind energy potential exceeds 7 gigawatts (GW), which is more than three times its total installed capacity.

    IRENA stated in a report released earlier this week that by 2030, about 616 megawatts of wind energy could be deployed.

    According to IRENA, Albania can use solar and wind energy to diversify its energy sources, thereby reducing its dependence on rainfall, reducing its impact on external factors and improving the stability of buildings.

    The agency pointed out that the country has one of the highest proportions of renewable energy in Southeast Europe, but its dependence on hydropower energy makes it vulnerable to climate externalities.

    The report was developed in cooperation with the Albanian Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy (MIE). It puts forward policy and regulatory measures and recommendations for the formulation of the National Energy and Climate Plan, which will set a renewable energy target by 2030.

    Active planning of variable renewable energy generation and grid infrastructure can minimize grid interference and improve the quality of energy supply while ensuring economic viability. In addition, the report stated that existing renewable energy deployment support mechanisms should be strengthened and approval procedures should be simplified.