Technical partnership between RTEi and MEPSO, the Macedonian electricity transmission system operator

The transmission system operator MEPSO is currently required to modernize its infrastructure in order to support North Macedonia’s energy transition, facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources, and converge towards European standards, particularly in terms of security of supply and grid flexibility. AFD’s support to MEPSO therefore forms part of a broader framework of regional energy integration and a sustainable energy transition aimed at addressing climate and energy security challenges.

The technical assistance project aims to strengthen MEPSO’s capacity to manage its electricity transmission network, particularly with a view to the increased integration of renewable energy sources. It comprises two main components: (i) The first component, implemented by RTEi, aims to improve the performance of the power system, with a particular focus on reserve sizing to maintain grid stability, through the use of European methodologies such as ERAA and the Antares tool. (ii) The second component, focuses on technical studies for the modernization of infrastructure operated by MEPSO, in particular the digitalization of a pilot substation and the rehabilitation of the transmission lines connected to this substation. This second component will be implemented by a consulting firm recruited by AFD. 

The technical assistance project is estimated at EUR 850,000, of which EUR 500,000 will be implemented by RTEi and EUR 350,000 by a French consulting firm.

RTEi will also support MEPSO in selecting among the various options for securing reserves (new conventional generation units, the use of storage systems, adaptation of consumer usage, etc.). Beyond the production of essential and urgent reports for MEPSO, this support aims to enable MEPSO to acquire, through RTEi, the skills required to carry out the calculations needed for the 2025 version of the reports (with RTEi providing leadership). The objective is that by 2026, MEPSO will be able to produce these reports autonomously, with only occasional support from RTEi. The second component aims to develop first pre-feasibility study for the digitalization of the substations of Kriva Reka, as well as the linked 110kv lines.