Is solar a viable alternative to electricity in Albania?

A move toward more solar is partly an attempt to diversify Albania’s electricity sources. In “ Evaluation and integration of photovoltaic (PV) systems in Albanian energy landscape,” which was recently published in Solar Compass, the scientists said that solar is an adaptable and affordable alternative, given Albania’s sunny climate.

How much solar energy is there in Albania?

Albania has an average of 2,400 hours of sun around 240-300 sunny days per year – there is significant potential to exploit solar energy, especially as it does not raise any pollution or other environmental risks. The potential solar energy that could be generated per annum is calculated at approximately 1500-1700 kWh/m 2.

Could solar power reduce Albania's reliance on energy imports?

Albanian researchers say that solar could be key to reducing Albania’s reliance on energy imports, but the nation will need to invest in grid infrastructure, streamline laws, and enhance access to funding to support deployment.

What incentives are there for PV development in Albania?

There are already incentives in place to bolster PV development in Albania across three mechanisms: net metering for PV systems up to 500 kW, feed-in tariffs (FiTs) for projects of up to 2 MW, and an auction scheme for large-scale solar facilities.

What is Voltalia doing in Albania?

Voltalia has started doing business in Albania in 2018 with the unsuccessful participation in the first solar tender organized by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy of the Republic of Albania (“MIE”). Despite this result, Voltalia has demonstrate great interest in the construction of 2.5 MW FiT-solar PV projects.

Is agrisolar a viable solution for a growing rural economy in Albania?

About 20% of Albania GDP relies on agriculture that employs about 60% of the population (as of 2020). Hence, agrisolar (and agrivoltaic) projects are among the most effective solution for a growing rural economy. Karavasta Solar Project - 140 MW | Voltalia’s first development in Albania | Voltalia has started doing business in Albania in 2018