The Albanian Electricity Corporation (KESH) has spent a significant amount on electricity imports this year, with a total expenditure of 60 million euros as of November. The month of November alone accounted for 15.5 million euros in electricity costs, due to a lack of rainfall that forced KESH to purchase 100,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) of energy at an average price of 150 euros per MWh. This price, while high, is considerably lower than the energy crisis prices of 2022, when the cost was as high as 500 euros per MWh.
In contrast, Albania had last imported electricity in August, relying on domestic production from the Drin Cascade to meet its needs. However, recent rainfall in December has improved the situation, as the water level in the Fierza Hydropower Plant has risen to 265 meters, nearing its maximum capacity of 296 meters. This increase, along with the production from two other hydropower plants in the Drin Cascade, ensures that Albania’s internal consumption will be met, with additional imports being used when necessary. KESH is closely monitoring the situation to manage the electricity supply effectively in the coming months.
