The draft law on energy, considered a crucial step in aligning with EU energy legislation, has successfully passed its second reading before parliamentary committees. The law is expected to be adopted this month, fulfilling reform agenda deadlines and obligations to the European Energy Community.

The Ministry of Energy views the law as a catalyst for market opportunities, providing equitable conditions for citizens, businesses, and public institutions. Minister Sanja Bozinovska emphasized that this legislation brings the country closer to the European energy market while bolstering internal stability and resilience.

During the amendment phase, Members of Parliament accepted 61 amendments out of 71 submitted from various parliamentary groups. The Ministry’s objective is to enact a harmonized and functional law that benefits both citizens and the energy system.

Key amendments accepted include:

• Mandatory integration of energy storage facilities (batteries) for new power plants utilizing variable renewable energy sources.
• A requirement for investors to demonstrate available funds of 100,000 euros when applying for a license to engage in electricity trade and supply.
• Refined provisions for the appointment and dismissal of members of the Regulatory Commission for Energy.
• An exception allowing gas distribution companies with fewer than 100,000 connected consumers to also engage in gas supply activities, including public service obligation and last resort supply.
• A requirement for the electricity distribution system operator to inform the Regulatory Commission for Energy about any additional income from surplus electricity sales.
• A mandate for licensees performing energy activities to provide separate income statements for each licensed activity in their annual reports to the Central Register.
• Transitional provisions for existing certification decisions for MEPSO and NOMAGAS, as well as for newly introduced energy operators requiring licenses.

According to the Ministry, the new law’s primary advantages include a liberalized, transparent, and competitive electricity market, offering consumers greater choice and fairer prices. The introduction of smart meters will facilitate precise measurement of actual electricity consumption, giving end consumers insights into their daily usage. The law also supports emerging concepts such as citizen energy communities and active demand management models.

Moreover, it aims to enhance market liquidity, provide access to more supply sources for businesses, ensure equal investment opportunities, and foster infrastructural stability through investments in storage systems and system digitalization.

As part of the energy reform, the Ministry is legally implementing the transfer of the ownership structure of the transmission system operator MEPSO to improve control, coordination, and management of the transmission network. Minister Bozinovska stated that a stable and professionally managed transmission system is essential for the growth of renewable sources and a reliable supply to households and industry. She believes this decision will strengthen the state’s capacity to address the challenges of the energy transition.