22/01/2026

On 22 January 2026, the SHAREs+ project, represented by project partner SDEWES-Skopje as local host, contributed to the conference “Electrification led by citizens” held in Skopje by organizing and delivering a dedicated session on Creating an enabling environment for energy communities.

The session brought together representatives from ministries, local self-government, NGOs, energy cooperatives, academia, consumer organizations and support initiatives, enabling a focused exchange on the current framework for energy community development in North Macedonia.

The discussion focused on identifying the key socio-economic, institutional and technical barriers affecting citizen-led renewable energy initiatives. Particular attention was given to regulatory clarity, administrative procedures and access to support mechanisms.

Participants identified the delay and uncertainty surrounding the adoption of secondary legislation as a major constraint, creating unpredictability for emerging energy communities and slowing implementation efforts.

The dialogue was marked by an open and constructive atmosphere, with stakeholders sharing practical experiences and challenges encountered in establishing and operating energy communities. This interaction helped frame barriers not only at policy level but also in terms of operational realities.

The session contributed directly to the ongoing barrier mapping process under the SHAREs+, helping to structure discussions around concrete regulatory and institutional bottlenecks and reinforcing the need for coordinated policy development.

The session also introduced the National Citizen Energy Forums (NCEFs) as structured platforms for continued stakeholder engagement within project. The discussion strengthened interest in participating in the upcoming NCEF meetings, which will validate findings and support the co-creation of practical solutions.

The event was jointly organized within the framework of the SHAREs+ (LIFE), install.res (LIFE) and Community Mobility Cooperatives (EUKI) projects. Insights from the session will inform the finalization of the national barrier analysis and guide the next phase of stakeholder engagement under SHAREs+.