A broad coalition of civil society organizations is urging governments across the Western Balkans to reconsider their energy strategies, warning that continued investment in gas infrastructure could lock the region into long-term dependence on fossil fuel imports. In a joint statement supported by 47 groups, including the CEE Bankwatch Network, the signatories argue that new gas pipelines and power plants are likely to increase consumption rather than reduce reliance on external suppliers. They caution that such projects may ultimately undermine energy security instead of strengthening it.
According to the organizations, large-scale gas developments typically require up to a decade to complete, making them unsuitable for addressing immediate supply challenges. At the same time, they highlight the significant financial burden associated with these investments, warning that projects could end up underutilized or dependent on long-term taxpayer-funded subsidies. The statement references ongoing and planned initiatives across the region, including interconnectors, LNG terminals and gas-fired power plants, many backed by international partners. In Serbia, authorities are continuing to expand gas infrastructure, including a planned 500 MW gas plant near Niš and other developments under consideration.
Civil society representatives also raise concerns about the lack of comprehensive cost-benefit analyses accompanying these investments. They emphasize that volatile gas prices, uncertain supply availability and evolving climate policies must be factored into long-term planning. Without this, governments risk committing to infrastructure that may not be economically viable in the future.
Compared to the European Union, the Western Balkans currently maintains a relatively low level of gas dependency. In 2024, gas accounted for more than 20% of the EU’s energy mix, while in the region the highest shares were recorded in Serbia and North Macedonia, with significantly lower levels elsewhere. Several countries, including Albania, Montenegro and Kosovo, remain largely unconnected to international gas networks.
The organizations warn that planned projects could dramatically increase gas consumption compared to 2023 levels, potentially creating long-term economic risks or leaving behind stranded assets. Instead, they advocate prioritizing renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, supported by hydropower and stronger electricity interconnections. Additional recommendations include expanding electrification in heating and transport, investing in heat pumps and geothermal solutions, and improving energy efficiency to reduce overall consumption.
