Continued Support for Energy Efficiency & Nearly-Zero Buildings 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. Established by the Western Balkans Investment Framework, 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, REEP remains a key instrument for the region's green transition.
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About WBIF and Global Gateway
The Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) contributes directly to Global Gateway, the EU’s strategy to boost smart, clean and secure connections in digital, energy and transport, while strengthening health, education and research systems worldwide. Global Gateway aims to mobilise up to €300 billion worldwide in investments through a Team Europe approach, bringing together the EU, its Member States and financial institutions to leverage investments for a transformational impact.
