Continued Support for Energy Efficiency and Nearly-Zero Energy Buildings for Students in North Macedonia

On 8 July 2025, additional €5.5 million of EU contribution provided through the WBIF Regional Energy Efficiency Programme (REEP) was approved for the second phase of this renovation project. The funds will cover part of the costs to renovate four state student dormitories: “Nikola Karev” in Ohrid, “Braka Miladinovci” in Shtip, “Orde Chopela” in Prilep, and “Tome Stefanovski-Senik” in Skopje.

The project aims for deep energy-efficient renovation of public student dormitories, including new facades, windows, heating systems, and lighting, in order to achieve energy savings of 30% to 50% compared to current consumption levels and to provide modern and comfortable living spaces for students. In addition to energy-efficiency measures, the project also plans to address the possible structural issues in the buildings to extend their lifespan and enhance their seismic stability.

At the signing ceremony, Minister of Education and Science PhD Vesna Janevska highlighted the Government’s commitment to quality education, better jobs, and living conditions, so youth can help shape the country’s future. One key focus, she added, is improving student dormitories—places where generations have created lasting memories.

“This is not just an infrastructure project, it’s an investment in the future, in dignified conditions for our students, and in long-term energy savings,” said Minister of Finance Msc. Gordana Dimitrieska-Kochoska.

“In light of the current heatwave, many people are becoming increasingly aware of the consequences of climate change. The energy-efficient renovation of student dormitories is a concrete contribution that directly helps improve living conditions for young people in cities: every kilowatt-hour saved means one that didn’t need to be produced in the first place” said H.E. Petra Drexler, German Ambassador to North Macedonia.

The EU Ambassador Michalis Rokas also addressed the attendees, confirming the continued support for the successful completion of this important infrastructure project.

Launched in 2013, the Regional Energy Efficiency Programme (REEP) for the Western Balkans was designed to assist the Western Balkans countries in decarbonising their economies by promoting investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency measures across residential, public and private sectors. Managed through the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF), the programme combines a comprehensive package of financing from the EBRD and KfW, EU incentives and additional donor funds for technical assistance and policy dialogue.

With over €1 billion invested in energy efficiency and growing demand for more investments, the Regional Energy Efficiency Programme (REEP), established by the Western Balkans Investment Framework, remains a key instrument for the region's green transition.

 ---

The WBIF is the main vehicle for the implementation of the Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans 2021-2027 which directly contributes to Global Gateway - the European strategy to boost smart, clean and secure connections in digital, energy and transport sectors, and to strengthen health, education and research systems across the world. Global Gateway is fully aligned with the UN’s Agenda 2030 and its Sustainable Development Goals, as well as the Paris Agreement. The initiative aims to mobilise up to €300 billion in investments worldwide. Through a 'Team Europe approach', Global Gateway will bring together the EU, its Member States and their financial and development institutions to mobilise the private sector to leverage investments for a transformational impact.