Kosovo hit by power outages as energy demand soars

Dec 26, 2024 - Kosovo is facing significant power outages as cold weather drives up energy consumption, putting unprecedented pressure on the country’s electricity grid. Residents in several municipalities are enduring prolonged cuts, prompting calls for urgent government action.

Growing frustration over prolonged outages

Municipalities including Ferizaj, Lipjan, Gjakova, Malisheva, Gjilan, Shtime, Istog, and Prizren have been hit hardest by the outages. Agim Aliu, the mayor of Ferizaj, described the situation as "unprecedented," revealing that his city was left without power for more than five hours in a single day.

“The entire city continues to face prolonged outages, and immediate measures are needed,” Aliu said, urging the government and Kosovo Energy Distribution Services (KEDS) to intervene.

Overburdened grid struggles to cope

The Ministry of Economy attributes the cuts to a surge in energy use that has overloaded the system, resulting in technical difficulties. Authorities have urged citizens to conserve electricity during peak hours—9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM to midnight—to prevent further strain on the grid.

They also encouraged the use of alternative heating sources, such as wood and pellets, and advised shifting electricity use to later at night.

However, some residents are growing impatient. Villages near Prizren have announced plans to protest outside KEDS offices, citing what they say are unacceptable and overly lengthy power cuts.

Political pressure for sustainable solutions

Opposition leaders have seized on the crisis, with Besnik Tahiri of the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo criticizing the government’s response. He accused officials of offering "excuses" rather than solutions, pointing out that many families cannot afford to use electricity during higher tariff periods.

“Extend lower tariff hours and implement long-term measures,” Tahiri urged on social media.

Kosovo’s electricity is primarily generated by its two coal-fired plants, Kosovo A and Kosovo B. The government has also been importing energy to meet growing demand, with recent imports costing more than €3.5 million over just two days, according to KESCO.

As temperatures continue to drop, pressure mounts on officials to deliver a reliable energy supply for citizens.