Albania's photovoltaic and wind power potential exceeds 7GW

    Albania has more than 7 gigawatts (GW) of potential for cost-effective solar and wind energy, more than three times its total installed capacity, according to estimates by the International Photovoltaic Solar Energy System Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

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

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

    The agency noted that the country has one of the highest shares of renewable energy in southeastern Europe, but its reliance on hydroelectric energy makes it vulnerable to climate externalities.

    Developed in collaboration with the Albanian Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy (MIE), the report presents policy and regulatory measures and recommendations for the development of the National Energy and Climate Plan, which will set renewable energy targets by 2030.

    Proactive planning for variable renewable energy generation and grid infrastructure can minimize grid disturbances and improve the quality of energy supply while ensuring economic viability. In addition, the report said, existing support mechanisms for renewable energy deployment should be strengthened and the approval process simplified.