The private sector of North Macedonia depends on well-functioning Water Utilities. Reliable and efficient water services are pivotal for attracting investments, supporting local businesses and creating employment opportunities across diverse sectors. However, most Utilities in the country struggle to cover the costs associated with providing water and wastewater services and face substantial challenges that hinder their ability to deliver sustainable and high-quality services.

The project's main goal is to boost the resilience and efficiency of water and wastewater Utilities amid climate change, energy crises, and emigration. To achieve this, the project aims to improve the operational and financial performance of Public Utilities while strengthening their capacity in energy efficiency and renewable energy. Key supporting factors for success include the gradual upgrade of utility infrastructure, as well as the improvement of a regulatory and institutional framework.

The Public Utilities have improved their organizational, operational and financial performance

The Public Utilities’ management and staff apply their increased knowledge in the field of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Sources

The regulatory and institutional framework for Water Utilities is being updated with energy aspects.

Expected results:  

The Public Utilities update regularly the Water Balances according to the International Water Association (IWA) Standard

The Public Utilities and Municipalities consider energy efficiency (EE) and renewable energy sources (RES) in their business and investment plans

The Public Utilities have established the KPI monitoring on EE and RES in water sector

The Public Utilities with support of the consultant and other key-stakeholders of the water and energy sector have established a Peer Exchange/ Community of Practice on EE and RES

The Regulator together with the Public Utilities have elaborated guidelines on energy audits for water sector

The key-stakeholders of the water sector have elaborated a Policy Paper defining the most relevant aspects for a Policy Dialogue on the integration of EE and RES in the water sector

The key-stakeholders of the water sector have established a Policy Dialogue with key-institutions on the integration of EE and RES in the water sector

Results from previous phases:  

As a longstanding development partner to the Republic of North Macedonia, SECO has been instrumental in implementing initiatives that have yielded positive results, focusing on enhancing infrastructure, improving operational efficiency, and building capacity within water utilities. These successful projects have not only improved water services but also contributed to North Macedonia's progress addressing the country's broader goals of economic development with the focus on EU integration and the Green Transition.