Kosovo
Country profile
Kosovo, a landlocked and mountainous country in the Balkans, is characterized by its rugged terrain and fertile central plains. It has a continental climate and faces environmental problems like air and water pollution, deforestation, and soil degradation due to mining activities. Kosovo is rich in lignite coal, with other mineral resources such as lead and zinc, but its reliance on coal for energy is a significant environmental issue, prompting efforts to diversify into renewables.
Opportunities
Kosovo’s* heavy reliance on lignite coal, which contributes to 95% of its electricity production, presents a strong opportunity for carbon reduction projects, particularly in transitioning to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind. With its abundant land area for reforestation and afforestation, Kosovo could implement carbon offset projects by restoring degraded land and enhancing forest cover, while energy efficiency initiatives could also help reduce the country’s carbon footprint.
* This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and it is in line with UNSCR 1244 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo* declaration of independence.
Challenges
Kosovo’s main challenge lies in its heavy dependence on lignite coal for energy, making it difficult to transition to renewable sources without significant investment. Political instability, a lack of financial resources, and limited technical expertise further hinder the development of large-scale carbon projects. Additionally, land degradation, poor environmental governance, and weak enforcement of regulations pose obstacles to reforestation and other carbon sequestration efforts.
The energy sector in Kosovo* is heavily reliant on lignite coal, which contributes to 95% of its electricity production. This dependence on coal makes Kosovo one of the highest greenhouse gas emitters per unit of GDP in Europe. The country has initiated steps to diversify its energy mix by promoting renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower. However, transitioning away from coal remains a significant challenge due to existing infrastructure and economic dependencies.
Kosovo has struggled with significant political and economic challenges, which have impacted its ability to progress towards EU integration. The normalization of relations with Serbia remains a critical issue, further complicating Kosovo's path towards meeting EU membership requirements and adopting green policies.
Key figures
of electricity in Kosovo is reliant on lignite coal
of reduction in GHG emissions by 2031 compared to the 1990 level committed by Kosovo’s voluntary NDC
already mobilized under the Economic and Investment Plan
Key focus areas
Kosovo’s focus should be on transitioning its energy sector from lignite coal to renewable sources like solar and wind, which will require substantial investment and international support. Reforestation of degraded lands and energy efficiency improvements in buildings and industrial processes are also vital areas. Strengthening environmental governance and building technical capacity will be key to advancing carbon initiatives.
Notable Initiatives
- Kosovo’s climate change efforts are supported by international organizations like UNDP, USAID, and the World Bank, focusing on capacity building, financial support, and policy development. Key projects include implementing the Climate Change Law, promoting eco-tourism, and supporting green startups.
- The “Strengthening Local Climate Action” project operates in municipalities like Prizren and Suharekë/Suva Reka, aiming to enhance local greenhouse gas reduction and promote sustainable development through innovative financing and renewable energy installations, aligning with Kosovo’s broader strategy to expand renewable energy sources like wind and solar PV.
