A coalition of 47 civil society organizations has called on governments in the Western Balkans to reassess their energy strategies, particularly regarding investments in gas infrastructure. The coalition, which includes the CEE Bankwatch Network, warns that ongoing and future projects could lead to increased dependence on fossil fuel imports, potentially undermining regional energy security. They argue that new gas pipelines and power plants are more likely to escalate consumption rather than diminish reliance on external suppliers.
The organizations point out that large-scale gas projects typically require up to a decade for completion, rendering them ineffective for addressing immediate energy supply challenges. Furthermore, they highlight the substantial financial implications of these investments, cautioning that many projects may become underutilized or reliant on long-term taxpayer subsidies. Current initiatives across the region include interconnectors, LNG terminals, and gas-fired power plants, with Serbia actively expanding its gas infrastructure through projects like a planned 500 MW gas plant near Niš.
Concerns have also been raised regarding the absence of thorough cost-benefit analyses for these investments. Civil society representatives emphasize that factors such as volatile gas prices, uncertain supply availability, and shifting climate policies must be integrated into long-term planning. Without such considerations, governments risk committing to infrastructure that may not remain economically viable.
In comparison to the European Union, the Western Balkans currently exhibits a lower level of gas dependency. In 2024, gas is projected to comprise over 20% of the EU’s energy mix, while Serbia and North Macedonia report the highest levels in the region. Countries like Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo remain largely disconnected from international gas networks.
The coalition warns that planned gas projects could significantly elevate consumption levels compared to those in 2023, posing long-term economic risks and potentially resulting in stranded assets. They advocate for a shift towards prioritizing renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, complemented by hydropower and enhanced electricity interconnections. Additional recommendations include increasing electrification in heating and transport sectors, investing in heat pump technologies and geothermal solutions, and improving overall energy efficiency to lower consumption rates.
