Secretariat issues recommendations on Albanian draft National Energy and Climate Plan

22 December 2021
Albania is the second Contracting Party to finalize and submit its draft National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) to the Secretariat for review. Based on the Ministerial Council Recommendation 2018/01/MC-EnC, the Secretariat issued its recommendations on the draft NECP of Albania. The Secretariat concluded that the draft constitutes a comprehensive overview of current and planned measures. However, there is room for additional policies in order to ensure that Albania embarks on structural reforms that help decouple its economic growth from greenhouse gas emissions.

Director Artur Lorkowski said: “I commend Albania for being among the frontrunners and submitting its draft NECP for review. Albania currently has a zero-emission domestic electricity generation sector, which provides a head start for clean development. The NECP is a key instrument to provide long-term regulatory certainty, create the right conditions to attract investment and promote the uptake of new technologies.”

Background

The Energy Community Contracting Parties are currently in the process of adopting NECPs, and thus setting out policies and measures in the five dimensions of the Energy Union (energy efficiency, renewables, greenhouse gas emissions reduction, internal energy market and research and innovation). The aim of the plans is to draw up an integrated policy framework to steer decarbonisation efforts until 2030 and beyond, aligning with the ambitions of the European Green Deal. In November 30 2021, the Ministerial Council adopted Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 (the Governance Regulation) in the Energy Community, which will be governing the establishment of NECPs from 2023.

https://www.energy-community.org/news/Energy-Community-News/2021/12/22.html

Just for fun,,,



https://twitter.com/KhalidHKhan3/status/1067770812160253952

Ambassador Zhou Ding meets with Deputy Prime Minister Ahmetay of Albania
Source: (Contributed by the Embassy in Albania)

Note: The translator is not working well in case of ALbania/Afghanistan and the name os de deputy primer minister is Arben Ahmetaj

2021-12-17 05:47

On December 15, 2021, Chinese Ambassador to Albania Zhou Ding met with Akhmetay, Deputy Prime Minister of Afghanistan. The two sides conducted in-depth exchanges on the development of China-Arab relations and the strengthening of cooperation in various fields between the two countries.

Ambassador Zhou said that this year marks the 100th anniversary of the Communist Party of China. In the past century, the Communist Party of China has led the Chinese people to realize the transformation from standing up, getting rich, and getting stronger. Especially in recent years, China has made world-renowned achievements in economic development, technological innovation, and poverty alleviation. Not long ago, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Afghanistan and reached broad consensus with Afghan leaders on carrying forward the traditional friendship between China and Afghanistan and deepening mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries. China is willing to share development experience and development dividends with Algeria, fully tap the potential of bilateral cooperation, provide support and assistance for Algeria's economic and social development and improve people's livelihood, and promote the stability and long-term development of bilateral relations.

Akhmetay congratulated the Communist Party of China on its centenary since its founding and said that China's development is changing with each passing day, and the achievements in technological innovation and poverty alleviation are impressive. Thanks to China for its long-term support and assistance to Afghanistan's economic and social development. ATV China is a sincere friend and looks forward to further deepening mutually beneficial cooperation with China in various fields and promoting Chinese assistance to better benefit the Afghan people.

https://www.mfa.gov.cn/zwbd_673032/wshd_673034/202112/t20211217_10470842.shtml

Ive been thinking that month ago....
But its very hard to me to follow the path of Falak bussines, the countries involved, projets and financing.
I think it would be possible ther are developing projects in Africa, they have a very good reputation and connection in those countries...
Time will tell but it obvious that we are in a reverse merger. IMHO

"Another major hydropower ptoject" he said.
Ive heard all projects that your are mention but this major hydropower project no from his mouth.
Who knows...

What project Rama is talking about?

Prime Minister Rama: Within 2030, Albania is a sovereign country in energy

11/25/2021 - 7:39 pm




[q]"We have 2 new photovoltaic parks that we will build. The projects have started and have their phases. Contracts have been signed and launched. Photovoltaic implementation projects have their phases in the field. Plus Skavica, which has also launched. Projects do not start when you look at the tractor. Projects start when forces are engaged, when feasibility studies are done, when funding is raised. Meanwhile, for Skavica, all funding from international financial institutions is summarized. Field research has been done. Project scenarios are being studied. That there are several scenarios that project. We are in the process of another major hydropower project. And the moment we do these we switch to net energy producers and exporters. And at that moment we have energy sovereignty. "Within 2030 we are a sovereign country in energy", stressed Rama.[q]

https://argumentum.al/lajmi/2021/11/kryeministri-rama-brenda-vitit-2030-shqiperia-vend-sovran-ne-energji/

Vjosa River Development Cooperation, world wealth that continues to be at stake

15 December, 23:22

BIRN Presents Online Platform on China’s Activities in Western Balkans

December 16, 2021
BIRN’s new interactive map pinpoints China’s growing business presence in the region – which experts say media and civil society need to focus on more

Experts and journalists have warned that Chinese loans and investments in the Balkans lack a desirable level of transparency and say more of a focus is needed on such activities.

BIRN’s new platform “China in the Balkans”, aims to shed light on China’s increased activities in the six Western Balkans countries.

In the last decade, the region has seen China’s influence grow fast, mostly through its Belt and Road Initiative, BRI.

As a relatively new player in the region, China’s investments have raised some concerns related not only to their environmental impact but to political influence, corruption and growing debt.

While these investments are growing in size and number, access to contracts and other relevant data is often difficult or impossible to find.

The interactive map pinpoints various projects undertaken by China in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia and Greece.

Editor Ivan Angelovski, who in recent months managed the investigation of China investments in the Balkans, said around 130 China business activities worth around 30 billion euros have been disclosed and presented in the interactive map.

“We are looking at anything related to the state, and digging into that was the real task. Governments are sending mixed messages; they are not clear what is a loan and what is direct investment,” Angelovski pointed out.

BIRN editor Ivana Jeremic said that 61 cases of China projects detected in Serbia make up almost half of all the cases presented in BIRN’s new database.

“For these cases that we were able to detect, the estimated value of projects is almost 19 billion euros … which explains the scope of influence China has in Serbia and importance of loans and investments,” Jeremic said.

“Some projects got stuck because of legal issues or environmentalists stopping some projects progressing because of environmental issues or land expropriation,” she added.

China’s activity in the region gathered speed in 2009. In that year the financial crisis that hit the world a year earlier was storming through the Balkans, and the region was scraping the bottom of the barrel to make ends meet.

Greece opened its door through the Port of Piraeus, while Serbia declared China the “fourth pillar” of its foreign policy.

Balkan countries needed money fast, and China needed a friendly corridor from the Mediterranean to Western Europe. It was the beginning of a beautiful friendship. But it has come at a price.

By BIRN’s own count, the region hosts over 130 projects worth at least 32 billion euros linked in one way or another to China.

The “China in the Balkans” map is a result of BIRN’s research into the various types of cooperation between Beijing and countries in the region.

It shows China is concentrating on taking over metallurgy, mining, energy, and transport in the region, with most of these projects accompanied by allegations of corruption, exploitation and environmental harm.

Plamen Tonchev, head of Asia Unit at the Athens-based Institute of International Economic Relations, said Chinese business activities in the Balkans should be seen as part of a bigger picture.

“The scale is overwhelming. The fact that Western Balkans are small by any standards, the fragmentation of the region, doesn’t help. China is a giant in terms of economic capacity and everybody is dazzled by the Chinese presence,” Tonchev said.

Ana Krstinovska, program manager at the Centre for Research and Policy Making in Skopje, said China’s activities in the region need to be more of a focus for media and civil society.

“We need to develop a more nuanced and in-depth understanding of China’s activities throughout the world in order to see what China is doing here, how we can maximise our interest,” she said, “because China is here to stay and in addition to being a threat to democratic values, it is an economic opportunity that we should not be missing out on.”

https://birn.eu.com/news-and-events/birn-presents-online-platform-on-chinas-activities-in-western-balkans/

Chinese Influence Spreads in the Western Balkans

From: Alice Taylor 5 hrs ago

Chinese Influence Spreads in the Western Balkans
China has at least 135 projects worth more than EUR 32 billion in the Western Balkans alone, according to an interactive platform created by BIRN.

The platform, entitled China in the Balkans, provides a clear view of China-linked projects in the region that come under the umbrella of the One Belt, One Road project.

In 2013, the Leader of the Communist Party of China, and the country’s president Xi Jinping announced his new plan to the world. He spoke of a China-led “Silk Road Economic Belt” based on the principle of the old trade route that connected east to west, centuries ago.

Promising a “win-win” situation for all those involved, and stating that China would never interfere in the internal affairs of the countries involved, interest was minimal and non-committal. But over the years, more and more countries signed up.

In the Balkans, China has invested in several infrastructure projects in the region as a part of its One Belt, One Road initiative. These include a still unfinished bridge in Montenegro that left the country with billions in debt, nearly forfeiting a chunk of its territory before European banks stepped in to bail them out.

It also includes control of the Piraeus container terminal in Greece and a road highway tainted with allegations of bribes in North Macedonia.

They were also involved with a controversial natural gas supply contract that saw Maltese taxpayers pay over the odds for gas in Malta. The agreement was being investigated by journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia when she was assassinated, and she was on the cusp of revealing millions in kickbacks payable to leading Maltese officials.

Called ‘debt trap diplomacy’, on paper, the project is a global infrastructure initiative to provide direct investment from China into more than 130 countries. Critics say it is a method to exert pressure and control throughout the world, particularly on smaller and poorer nations.

In Serbia, the government recently purchased $19.3 million in military drones. The CH-92A drones are produced by a state-owned company in China. They can carry two missiles, and strike from a distance of up to 9 kilometers. Other specs include image recording at a distance of up to 250 kilometers, flying at an altitude of 5,000 meters, and a maximum speed of 200 km/h.

Serbia has been beefing up its military capabilities in collaboration with China and Russia in recent years.

According to BIRN data, Serbia has the most projects linked to China, totalling 16 worth over EUR 2 billion. Concerns have been raised over Chinese influence in Serbian lawmaking in favour of investors. These changes can significantly impact human rights, environmental issues, and society as a whole.

In Albania, Chinese influence has been declining and there has been no investment from Beijing since 2016.

But in October, it was reported that Chinese Foreign Minister and State Councillor Wang Yi met with Albanian foreign minister Olta Xhacka.

Yi’s European visit came amid claims from Chinese businesses that the political climate has deteriorated for them in the region. A recent survey commissioned by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce to the EU and delivered by consultancy Roland Berger said that 62% felt this, and 59% believe disinformation and misinformation threaten their operations.

The report does not mention what kind of disinformation has impacted their businesses, stating it is merely “supply chain-related issues”.

These issues are believed to reference the persecution and incarceration of millions of Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang, China. A report published in 2020 alleged that the Chinese government was forcing Uyghur people to work in factories and on production lines supplying the West.

The Chinese government has denied the claims, calling them “fake news”.

https://exit.al/en/2021/12/16/chinese-influence-spreads-in-the-western-balkans/

Vau i Dejes hydropower plant to generate energy through photovoltaic panels / Balluku: The main goal is to become an exporting country for the region
16:34 - December 15, 2021


The Ministry of Energy has announced that the Vau i Dejes HPP will now produce energy through photovoltaic panels installed in the dam of this hydropower plant.

'We increase capacity and efficiency through diversification of energy production sources', the ministry writes.

During an inspection in this HPP, Minister Belinda Balluku has underlined again that the price of electricity will not increase for households and small businesses.

"The government has undertaken to protect family and small business subscribers. There will be no penny increase in price regarding this group. However, since the DCM gives the opportunity to continue and have other production opportunities, such as energy exchange, with regional partners, and of course the purchase with long procedures creating a financial optimization. The amount of energy at the price it has but on the other hand KESH needs to increase its capacity. It is green energy production. There are not many countries in the world that meet this condition. "It's a giant to be floting and it is one of the few in Europe that has this kind of capacity," said the minister.

Balluku made it clear that the government's goal is to export energy to the region. Convinced, she stressed that Albania will succeed because the projects are not on paper or in 3D but are well realized.

"When we look at these new projects, we get hope that we will not have problems, at least after 5 years Albania will have increased its covering capacities, such as Skavica. On the other hand our main goal is to become an exporting country for the region. Albania will succeed because the projects are not on paper or in 3D but are well realized. "All this work that is being done today will give results in the coming years," said Balluku.

https://apel.media/hec-i-i-vaut-te-dejes-do-te-prodhoje-energji-permes-paneleve-fotovoltaike-balluku-synimi-kryesor-eshte-qe-te-kthehemi-nje-vend-eksportues-per-rajonin/

Energy, Gordani: Government aims to reduce network losses, in 2022 prices remain unchanged
Thursday, 16 December 2021, 14:10

The government has approved the revision of the loss reduction plan in the financial consolidation plan of the electricity sector, set out in the loan received from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. We will discuss this topic

The expert on energy issues, Mr. Lorenc Gordani in the news studio on MCN TV stated that we are currently in the second phase as the first loan was for recovery. He said that in 2026 we aim to achieve 17.8% energy loss in the network, while adding that if we connect it with the strategy of 2030 you should find us with 10% loss.

In terms of investments, Gordani said that this will be reflected as we are currently operating with a hybrid system. He clarified that for next year, referring to the political statements, prices will remain unchanged in terms of household consumers and small businesses.

1. What does this change provide for Mr. Gordani in the government plan from the loan taken since 2014?

We are currently in the second phase, the first was for recovery. Now the energy market is entering a more qualified stage, in fact we should have achieved these targets in the first loan. Since that loan and continuously we have had conditional loans because some targets must be met. The loan was previously with the World Bank. The first installment has already been disbursed.

2. What are the new indicators? At what level are the energy losses and how much should they be for next year and the forecast until 2026?

There is a specific chart which refer, the first target was very large about 38% of accepted losses and which walk more percentage reduction. While now we have reached the losses that we hope will be 20.5%. It is an exceptional value with values ??referenced by OSHEE. In 2026 we aim to reach 17.8% and if we connect it with the 2030 strategy you should find us with 10% loss.

3. Reducing network losses requires serious investment, while through the decision to declare a state of emergency, the government has ordered public companies to suspend investment until April next year. What impact does it bring?

The first investment of 1.5 billion euros is needed to reach the optimal level. Energy prices have quadrupled on the stock exchanges and then this is discharged to the final consumer. In this context, we also had the declaration of the state of emergency. It has not been declared anywhere first by Albania in the region then by Macedonia. And this to say that we enter another stage. We are operating with a hybrid system. We already have a little practical pursuit. Companies in a way energy is provided by cash. So all in the short term is positive, companies are better coordinated and in turn investment will be reflected. OSHEE needs 80-90 million euros every year which will be suspended and this will make an even heavier burden that will approve more in investments.

4. What will be the consequences of the latest changes where KESH is given the right to carry out special competitive procedures for the lease of thermal energy generating assets for a period of up to 3 years.

In many practical terms KESH is the generating company that should provide the energy for OSHEE. The sector needs to be liberalized. The three companies created by OSHEE all in fact have an exception to this extraordinary situation KESH has plans to rent plants. The source with which the race will open is indefinite, natural gas is provided, so I wish it was not with other materials, for example diesel, because it could collide with other aspects in terms of climate.

5. Mr. Gordani, for consumers and small businesses by the end of 2021 it was said that there will be no increase in the price of electricity. What is expected in 2022? How much is the growth expected to be?

If we refer to the political statements for the coming year, there will normally be no price increase for families and small businesses. While the price situation will continue and the requirements in terms of tariffs will be reviewed because OSHEE is coming out with a loss a situation that can not continue. At the moment we do not expect price increases.

6. Meanwhile, we should not ignore the fact that Albania is endangered in cases of energy crises, so we remain dependent on the impact of energy produced from hydro resources. Why this situation after 51 years of electrification?

52 years constitute the normal cycle of energy investments. This is and with this view we have the renewal of the energy system. It does not mean that Albania we are a country with solar resources but in the network there is a need for investment. Energy management and saving required.

http://www.mcntv.al/2021/12/16/energjia-gordani-qeveria-synon-t-uli-humbjet-n-rrjet-n-2022-mimet-mbeten-t-pandryshuara

China in the Balkans: Controversy and Cost
December 15, 202116:29

China, war with the EU for the Balkans: Offers more investment, fewer conditions
by imkadmin Dhj 14, 2021

China is reacting to the European Union’s initiative to lure the Western Balkans with more investment.

Although Chinese investment accounts for a relatively small share of foreign investment in the region compared to that of the EU, observers say there is growing concern about the billion-dollar Chinese-backed Chinese influence Beijing has invested since 2005. .



Financial estimates vary, however experts agree that Serbia receives 80% of Chinese investment in the Western Balkans. Until recently, the Western response to Chinese influence in the region was minimal.



Only recently have European officials considered some investments in the Western Balkans as part of the response to the Chinese One Belt One Road initiative.

Such is a $ 46 billion fund to be invested in technology and infrastructure in the region. But Igor Novakovic of the Belgrade-based Center for International and Security Affairs says EU funds are often more difficult to obtain than Chinese funds.



Stefan Vladisavljev, of the Belgrade Fund for Political Achievement, said some lawmakers and officials in the region prefer Chinese investment as Beijing imposes fewer obligations on regional officials and stakeholders on the ground.



“When China approaches countries, generally developing countries, China offers infrastructure projects that are often agreed upon in a non-transparent way… They are accompanied by limited conditions, and this is attractive“, He says, noting that the EU has investment guidelines that require regional governments and businesses to prove that they are in line with EU standards.

https://www.imalbania.com/kosova/china-war-with-the-eu-for-the-balkans-offers-more-investment-fewer-conditions/

China Grows Balkan Investments by Asking Less Than EU, Say Experts

December 12, 2021 2:31 AM

BELGRADE, SERBIA —
China accounts for a relatively small share of outside investment in the western Balkans compared to the European Union, but observers say there is growing concern about the scope of Chinese influence tied to the billions of dollars Beijing has invested in the region since 2005.

Others, however, say China's regional influence is overblown.

The financial estimates vary. The London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies says China on average has invested roughly $1 billion in the region annually since 2011, while The American Enterprise Institute estimates roughly the same amount annually since 2005. The Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies put the figure at closer to $1.8 annually since 2012.

Experts agree, however, that about 80% of Chinese western Balkan investment, including projects in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, and North Macedonia, goes to Serbia.

While China accounts for an estimated 1% of annual foreign investment in Serbia, dwarfed by the EU's 70%, a June 2020 poll by the International Republican Institute showed that 71% of Serbians identified China among the region's important economic partners.

Read entire article

https://www.voanews.com/a/china-grows-balkan-investments-by-asking-less-than-eu-say-experts-/6349558.html

Our license is still active.

read the article
https://abcnews.al/zeri-i-zhurmshem-i-koncesioneve-shqiptare/

Sheet.
http://www.akbn.gov.al/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/HEC_kontratat-aktive-.xlsx

From January 1, the liberalization of the energy market starts, how it works.

Read the entire article.

https://acp.al/news/12954/Nga-1-janari-nis-liberalizimi-i-tregut-te-energjise,-si-funksionon/



Liberalizimi i tregut të energjisë elektrike – OSSH: Do të nisi nga data 1 janar 2022. Detajet

The entire article.

www.scan-tv.com%2Fliberalizimi-i-tregut-te-energjise-elektrike-ossh-do-te-nisi-nga-data-1-janar-2022-detajet%2F&h=AT11MXv7rfUmy2eMP1pYXuMf4GhR7IJldpTcBqzy5iHrC7Cg_s84kCbqYYd4eCSpbh8uXDW2K8C-tT4E1K-Rk6p2gat1nFOif66palQP30fWxSsUvKf2uOyYyqTZCIfkXMNnWDx-wNQ3X4tD


 I think these signals is the most wanted for all investors...

Aerosmith is not too old.
Try this. LOL

It seems that someone has bought it.

Agreement on mutual recognition of licenses for trade and supply of electricity for energy between Kosovo and Albania is signed

December 07, 2021

Kosovo and Albania have signed today the agreement for mutual recognition of licenses for trade and supply of electricity, reports kallxo.com.

This will be the ninth agreement signed between the two countries in the electricity sector.

Representatives of both countries from this sector said at the conference that within 2022 they will operate the ALPEX electricity exchange. The goal of both countries remains the unification of the electricity market Albania-Kosovo one month after the stock exchange is fully operational.

Another goal of both countries remains the regional union of the energy exchange with member and non-EU member states. This regional merger is scheduled to be implemented in 2023-2025.

The Minister of Economy, Artane Rizvanolli, said in this conference that private sector investments in the energy sector are necessary because both countries depend only on one type of energy, Albania from hydropower and Kosovo from lignite energy, conveys kallxo .com.

"Kosovo and Albania depend only on one type of energy and this makes investments from the private sector necessary. Our common goal through this process should be the integration of neighboring countries in the energy market. The next step is the functioning of an energy exchange between the two countries, as well as the signing of an agreement between the two countries for integration in this sector ", said Rizvanolli.

The Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy in Albania, Ilir Bejtja, said at the conference that the signing of this agreement will create security in the energy sector in Kosovo and Albania.

Bejtja also said that both countries should go to market liberalization because large enterprises no longer have the capacity to create energy as needed.

"We in Albania are feeling the decarbonization and Kosovo will be the one that will be most affected because its energy sources are mainly lignite. The whole region will be affected by decarbonization. We need to create new energy. We need to go to market liberalization because private individuals are more capable than us because they can go and get energy and bring it. We can not do that with dinosaurs - big companies. Greece will close 8 stations and Macedonia will close the station and feel the crisis. And where will they find the energy, of course in the countries of the Region such as Kosovo and Albania. "Agreements should not be only on paper but should be implemented and we should create an Albanian energy market", said Bejtja.


https://kosovo.energy/nenshkruhet-marreveshja-per-njohjen-reciproke-te-licencave-per-tregtimin-dhe-furnizimin-e-energjise-elektrike-per-energjine-ne-mes-te-kosoves-dhe-shqiperise/

I think these new apparitions of Falaknaz lift up his profile on the bussines world again...
He has spoke about Nuclear Power Plant, Trains and in the big board of UAEs politic scenery in less than a month...
News are coming soon...

The UAE is on a date with the future during the next fifty years

Saturday 04th December 2021 08:16 AM

Abdul Rahman Falaknaz, Chairman of Falak Holding Group, blesses His Highness the President of the State and to Their Highnesses Sheikhs, Members of the Supreme Council and Rulers, the celebration of the UAE and all citizens and residents at the state level on the occasion of the fiftieth anniversary of the UAE Federation.

He considered the occasion to be the most important and largest in the history of the UAE and those in charge of it, pointing out that the progress, civilization, pride and majesty that has been achieved during the past fifty years has not been reached and has not been achieved by large and ancient countries in several decades, stressing that the loyalty of the wise leadership and its keenness on the success of the experience of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may God have mercy on him, the founding father, the devotion of his brothers, Their Highnesses the Sheikhs, the rulers of the Emirates, and the love of the people of the country for the soil of this country contributed to all this success and development and also contributed to making the people of the Emirates hold their heads high with what they achieved and the progress and lofty they reached.

Falaknaz stressed: After the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan planted the seeds of union and unity and the seeds of development and progress, he promised the people of this young country to preserve what has been achieved of success and development, so the coming days will be better and greater, and the next fifty years will witness great qualitative leaps for the UAE It will make it one of the most advanced countries in all fields.

Falaknaz said: “The UAE is on a date with the future by launching the fifty projects recently announced by the wise leadership, which deal with various sectors and fields, including the economic sector, supporting youth, training and qualifying them, and providing financing for small and medium projects, which will encourage them to go to work in the private sector, and launch Business and economic and investment activities that are commensurate with their abilities and thinking, and push them to rely on themselves to achieve success and leadership.”


https://middleeast.in-24.com/News/amp/466543

Foreign media: The Albanian government has blocked the Vjosa National Park

2021-12-06 09:04:46


https://politiko.al/english/e-tjera/mediat-e-huaja-qeveria-shqiptare-ka-bllokuar-parkun-kombetar-te-vjoses-i449127

I think our big day is near.

Abdul Rahman Falaknaz always involved in giants projects in some kind of way

Etihad Train” consolidates the UAE’s global leadership in transport and logistics

Sunday 05th December 2021

The “Etihad Train” constitutes a qualitative leap in the system of transporting goods and passengers in the UAE, which enhances its global supremacy in the transport and logistics sector, as the train will connect the seven emirates of the country, and will also link the state to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia via the city of “Al Ghuwaifat” in the west and Fujairah in the east coast, to form Thus, it is a vital part of the regional supply network, and the movement of commercial transport worldwide.

Economists stressed to Al Bayan the importance of the vital role of railways in supporting the progress of the industrial sector and building sustainable supply chain networks in the UAE, which contributes to advancing economic growth and supporting industrial companies in the UAE in particular, and the GCC countries. The Gulf region on a larger scale, and that the national railway program is one of the factors in consolidating societal well-being in the UAE.

quality step

Abdul Rahman Falaknaz, CEO of Falak Holding Group in the UAE and the Middle East, considered the Etihad Rail project, whose steps are beginning to see the light, a qualitative step towards the future, and a great qualitative leap forward, not only because it connects the emirates and cities of the UAE, but also because it will contribute to a qualitative leap forward .

He added: The Etihad Rail project will truly be a new start for the Union at the beginning of the next fifty years, and it is a large and huge project that we are proud of, and it will contribute to the further economic development of the UAE, and it establishes the principles that the national priority and the future vision of the UAE’s approach is economy and development.

Falaknaz added, “Such giant projects are not new to the thinking and approach of the wise leadership of the UAE, as they always think about the future and the advancement of the country and its sons.”

exceptional project

Walid Al Zarooni, a real estate expert and Chairman of the Board of Directors of W Capital Real Estate Brokerage, said that the exceptional Etihad Rail project is the largest infrastructure project in the UAE, and reflects the rapid development witnessed by the country in all fields.

He added that the project is a mainstay of the competitiveness of the national economy and comes as an important indicator of the country’s development, readiness of its infrastructure, and ease of establishing business and trade exchange.

He pointed out that the UAE spares no effort to equip the infrastructure with the best global capabilities and provides financial support for the expansion of all basic services for citizens and residents.

The best infrastructure in the world

Mohammed Al-Mutawa, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Al-Waleed Investment Company, said: The railway track in the Emirates within the new national program is the Gulf Silk Road, as it begins by linking the Emirates and then linking with the Gulf countries, and then the Arab countries in the near future.

He pointed out that this program is one of the best national programs and aims to link the Emirates from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah by railways, followed by access to the neighboring Gulf countries.

Al-Mutawa added that the railway expansion supports future plans for urban expansion, and promotes the UAE as the best destination for living in the world, with improved infrastructure indicators. He stated that the infrastructure of the UAE is among the best in the world, and it is constantly trying to develop it according to the best international standards.

economic renaissance

Economist Ali Al-Hamoudi said that the launch of the “National Railways Program”, including the “Etihad Train”, is one of the largest infrastructure projects in the country, in a way that enhances the process of the comprehensive economic renaissance that the country is witnessing, especially with the launch towards a new stage to anticipate the future in the fifty years. He pointed out the importance of the transport sector as the “lifeline” of the state, especially that railways play a major role in integrating markets and increasing the volume of trade.

Al-Hamoudi pointed out that rail transport systems are more energy-efficient, in addition to the fact that the social costs in terms of environmental damage or degradation are much lower with reliance on railways, adding that the “National Railways Program” will enhance the state’s leadership in the transport sector. Logistics and infrastructure.

enhance competitiveness

For his part, the economic expert, Mohammed Karam, said that the railway network is one of the most prominent strategic projects in the UAE, and one of the largest infrastructure projects, as it links the main centers of industry, production and population centers with import and export points, as well as its primary role in advancing social and economic growth. , while reducing the number of trucks and means of passenger transport.

Karam added that the “Etihad Train” will contribute to linking vital areas in the seven emirates through a 1,200 km track, in addition to developing the logistics and transportation sector in the region, pointing to the importance of railway networks in reducing supply chain costs and enhancing the competitiveness and productivity of the industrial sector, as well as On the environmental impact while reducing the number of trucks and carbon footprint and thus achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

global leadership

Economist Al-Hassan Bakr, chief economic analyst at Evest, said that the Etihad Rail project constitutes a significant step in the development of the country’s infrastructure, in a way that enhances the position of the UAE on the global map as a link in the field of global transport and logistics, pointing out that The launch of the “National Railways Program” will have positive effects not only in the industrial sector, but will extend its impact to various economic sectors in the country and will contribute to creating new job opportunities.

Bakr added that in light of the large distances covered by the Etihad train, as it will link 11 cities and regions in the country, as well as linking many industrial areas with border crossings and ports, it will contribute to an increase in the demand of many international industrial companies to transfer their business to industrial areas in the country and thus strengthen The strength of these industrial areas in light of the ease of transportation and low costs, which contributes to a significant increase in production.

The spirit of the Emirates

Imran Farouk, CEO of Samana Group in Dubai, said: “The United Arab Emirates’ intercity train will be another accelerator for the country’s economy. It is a new milestone for accelerating public transport and connectivity as it connects 11 major cities and regions across the Emirates, and will support the economy in all its aspects, adding to other notable achievements, in addition, the new transport facility will reduce carbon emissions by 70%, which will help create an environment Healthier As part of the Global Climate Conference (COP28) initiative hosted by the UAE in 2023, Etihad Rail represents the spirit of the UAE in the second fifties.

https://middleeast.in-24.com/News/amp/469930

Dialogue Between Albania Ambassador Selim Belortaja & Chief Reporter Murphy Ting DENG from NYWSST

2021-12-01 12:13:30

http://wsnay.com/index.php/zh/%E5%8D%8E%E5%B0%94%E8%A1%97%E5%8D%AB%E8%A7%86/dialogue-between-albaniambassador-selim-belortaja-chief-reporter-murphy-ting-deng

Falak, will move forward his business . This year we had a confirmatiom and the signing MOU with CGGC and the fillings of 3Power Shala, its balamces for 2018 and 2019, thats proves enough for me.
Of course something went wrong years ago. But he is keeping moving.

Energy transmission, OST envisages 134 million euros of investments in the 3-year plan

30 November, 07:53 | 

The Transmission System Operator (TSO) acknowledges that despite the investments made in the network after year, the need for new projects remains high due to the increase of new production capacities that are increasing day by day.

The Transmission System Operator (TSO) acknowledges that despite the investments made in the network after year the need for new projects remains high due to the increase of new production capacities that are increasing day by day.

While at the moment the investments are suspended due to the state of emergency in the energy supply of the country and only the necessary interventions are allowed for the following years, OST has foreseen at least 134 million euros in this item.

At least this is the result of the application made by the company to the ERE, where it argued its need for a tariff review with almost a doubling.

"During the years 2022-2024 OST sha.a. plans to make about 16.5 billion ALL investments, of which 44.3 percent financed with foreign funds while the rest with OST funds" underlines OST.

But what exactly are foreign-funded projects.

The first according to the TSO is the energy efficiency program of the transmission sector Lot 1 substations and Lot 2 lines. This project is financed with a 40 million euro loan granted by the German government through the kfW bank. The second is the construction of the 400 kV line Albania-Macedonia and the expansion of substations Elbasan 2 and Fier. The financing of this project is also supported by the German government with a development loan of 50 million euros and a grant of 13.7 million euros from the Investment Framework.

Recall that only two days ago the National Council of the Territory approved the construction permit for the first lot of this project while the second lot is in the design phase.

Another investment is that of the new 110 kv line Fier-Hoxharë and the construction of the new cable line Tirana1-Center.

OST estimates that there is a growing need for investment in the network because part of it is depreciated and has over 50 years in operation.

"Most of the 110 kv network includes lines and substations connected to it that already have a service period of about 50 years. OST has always been able to transmit the full generation of the country without any restrictions and with a high level of security but in recent years we have faced an increase in the generation of the country with 30 percent higher than that of the maximum previously achieved. The practice of operating in this situation revealed some critical nodes of the transmission system ", underlines OST./ Monitor

https://shqiptarja.com/lajm/transmetimi-i-energjise-ost-parashikon-134-milione-euro-investime-ne-planin-3-vjecar?r=read_more

Rainfall fills hydropower plants, electricity production doubles

Broadcast on 30-11-2021, 18:02

Rainfall has improved the energy situation in the country. According to the Albanian Electric Power Corporation, the inflows in the Drini cascade have reached 1220 m3 / s. from 85 m3 per second that were a week ago. Also, the water level in Lake Fierza has managed to pass the critical point, while the recorded level is 267.5 m and the inflows are 600 m3 per second.

In other HPPs the situation has improved, in Koman the level has reached 169.6 m while the inflows are 300m3 / s. While in Vaun e Dejës the level is 74.3 m3 / s and the inflows are 320m3 / s.

KESH announces that in Fierza currently no electricity is being produced in order to increase the reserve which is currently 438 GWh while in the other two HPPs is being produced at full capacity.

KESH suggests that if the rains continue then the electricity supply situation will stabilize. The Electricity Distribution Operator informs that currently the import continues as the amount of energy has been pre-purchased.

But if energy production will have these rates then the country will reduce energy imports on the stock exchange which has seen a significant price increase during this period due to the energy crisis. A few months ago the government declared an energy emergency in the country.

The levels in the lakes of the Drini Cascade are:

Hec Fierzë 267.5 mmnd

Hec Koman 169.7 mmnd

Hec Vau i Dejës 74.3 mmnd

Power generation

IN THE CASCADE 10,150 MWh

ENERGY RESERVES 437.98 GWh

FEEDS IN HECE

Fierza 600 m3 / s

KOMAN 300 m3/s

Vau i Dejës 74.3 m3 / s /

https://noa.al/lajmi/2021/11/2279987.html

Wolfgang Heinl is a Board Director...

ECO Energy Europe Ltd. London Company has filled on Nov 23th...
Hmmm...

https://www.northdata.com/ECO+Energy+Europe+Ltd.,+London/Companies+House+03574123

http://3powershala.com/cgi-sys/suspendedpage.cgi

Mihajlovic: Connecting region's energy sector a must

We must establish a common energy market in the region and connect physically, but we must first lift physical barriers through joint protocols, Serbian Deputy PM and Minister of Mining and Energy Zorana Mihajlovic said on Wednesday.


24 Novembar 2021 18:33

BELGRADE - We must establish a common energy market in the region and connect physically, but we must first lift physical barriers through joint protocols, Serbian Deputy PM and Minister of Mining and Energy Zorana Mihajlovic said on Wednesday.

"This initiative must crush prejudice and obstruction, which appear from time to time," Mihajlovic told a business panel at an Open Balkans conference held in the Serbian parliament building.

In a time when the world talks about cybersecurity and space, the dominant comments here are about whether the Open Balkans is a Greater Albania or a new Yugoslavia in disguise, Mihajlovic said.

"Neither of that is true. People are still unaware of how much this initiative can do for prosperity in this region," she said.

She said the energy sectors of Serbia, Albania and North Macedonia - the three participating countries - would connect with the entire region and that the countries must therefore send a message to others to join the initiative.

http://www.tanjug.rs/full-view_en.aspx?izb=699954

THE UAE ALLOCATES $ 10 BILLION TO INVEST IN TURKEY

18:58 / 24.11.2021

Turkey and the UAE sign bilateral co-operation agreements in many areas, including trade, energy and the environment.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has allocated a fund of 10 billion dollars to invest in Turkey, reports Anadolu Agency.

Abu Dhabi Development Holding chief executive Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi told the media that the fund was split after a meeting between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Alsuwaidi noted that the crown prince arrived in Ankara at the invitation of the Turkish president.

Turkey and the UAE sign bilateral co-operation agreements in many areas, including trade, energy and the environment.

https://www.rtklive.com/sq/news-single.php?ID=573940

Thanks for shared it.

Austria support Albania and NM: The first Intergovernmental Conference with EU must be held as soon as possible

Published on: 19 November 2021

The minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Olta Xhaçka, welcomed today the Federal Minister for European and International Affairs of Austria Michael Linhart, who is paying a two-day visit in Albania.

Minister Xhaçka appreciated Austria’s continuous commitment and the unsparing support of the integration process and important reforms, making Austria one of the most powerful voices in support of the EU integration of Albania.

“Albania has made efforts to implement a range of important reforms, efforts that are recognized form the European Commission as well as member states. Austria is one of the countries that we share the same idea regarding the necessity to strengthen the engagement of EU and the political cooperation with Western Balkans. In these challenging times, where the phantoms from the past have started to resurface, we must rise to the heights of understanding the implications that come from developments in the region and to think that the revival of the EU integration perspective of the countries of the region be an efficient instrument to encourage the continuing of the reforms and the strengthening of the stability”, said the Minister in the joint press conference after the meeting.

On the other hand, Minister Linhart reconfirmed the engagement and the support of Austria to approve as soon as possible the Negotiation Framework and to hold the First Intergovernmental Conference with Albania during the Slovenian Presidency of EU.

Both Ministers agreed that there are positive signals from Bulgaria regarding the gridlock with North Macedonia that is holding back the integration process for both countries.

This visit is part of the regional tour that Minster Linhart is paying in the Western Balkan region, after being appointed as Federal Minister for Europe and International Affairs of the Republic of Austria.

https://punetejashtme.gov.al/en/press-office/news/austria-support-albania-and-nm-the-first-intergovernmental-conference-with-eu-must-be-held-as-soon-as-possible

I am thinking that too...

VIDEO-SYRI TV / Government cut the cascades, OSHEE so far 213 million euros for energy purchases
14:03 , 11/22/2021

So far, 213 million euros have been spent on energy purchases, while another 70 million are needed by the end of the year. The Albanian government emptied the cascades during the summer by selling cheap energy and is now forced to buy it at four times the price, seriously endangering OSHEE finances.

Electricity imports have reached 213 million, causing a huge financial hole in the OSHEE budget.

According to Monitor magazine, this amount is as much as 44% of the company's revenue and the gap between revenue and expenses continues to narrow significantly.

Monitor writes that if the water situation does not improve then by the end of the year the company will need another 70 million euros to cope with the situation.

In total, according to a simple account, only for the purchase of energy will be needed about 300 million euros, out of 480 million which are the revenues of the company.

Import prices in recent days have fluctuated between 220 and 320 euros per megawatt hour. They rose to record levels in late September, leaving the Albanian government unprepared.

Throughout the summer the water situation was in optimal condition. The government in the liquidity emergency sold one megawatt hour at 1 quarter of the price it currently buys. The bulk turned out to have been exported during August, just one month before prices rose.

This led to the emptying of the hydropower cascades, and to meet the needs OSHEE was forced to turn to the free market.

According to data from January to the first week of October, the total value of energy purchases in imports is estimated at 99.6 million euros, about 23 million euros more than in the same period last year.

https://www.syri.net/ekonomi/466277/video-syri-tv-qeveria-thau-kaskadat-oshee-deri-tani-213-milione-euro-per-blerje-energjie/

DDC chief Falaknaz looks to host more India-Pakistan ties
an hour ago

Mohammad Abdullah, Senior Sports Reporter



A delighted Dubai Cricket Council (DDC) chairman Abdul Rahman Falaknaz hopes to host more India-Pakistan matches after the staging of a successful T20 World Cup games at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.



The recently-concluded T20 World Cup was held across three venues - Sharjah, Dubai and Abu Dhabi - in the UAE and some matches of the preliminary round were played in Oman as well.



Though Sharjah has hosted the Indo-Pak matches since long, it was only second time that the arch-rivals played in Dubai, that too a World Cup match.



Last time the two countries met at Dubai Stadium was in Asia Cup in 2018.



A proud Falaknaz, who is an ardent sports administrator and aficionado himself, has served different sports in various capacity for over four decades.



He is the vice-president of the UAE Tennis Federation, honorary Board Member of the UAE Fencing Association and Board Member of the UAE National Olympic Association apart from being the chief of the Dubai Cricket Council.



He expressed his happiness on staging the matches of the cricket extravaganza at the facility.

“First of all as an Emirati, I'm very proud because the UAE as a whole and especially Dubai in particular hosts anything to the best. And of course, T20 World Cup is also a sign of good organisation. I would say we are lucky to be an alternative to India.



“At the same time also to Pakistan because of their local tournament. They used the facility to host their home series for so many years. It was like a home ground for them for many years,” said Falaknaz.



“But coming back to the World Cup, I think how lucky we are to be able to stage this for our brothers in India as well as in Pakistan. I think it says a lot for it. And so, the most amazing thing is that an Arab country is holding a cricket World Cup.”



The T20 World Cup was originally slated to be held in India but due to worsening coronavirus condition it was shifted to the UAE.



“It was not thought of at all by anybody before. Nobody even thought that there would be facilities in the Arab world to host a cricket World Cup,” added Falaknaz.



“I am looking forward to host more India-Pakistan matches in Dubai. I will try and convince my friends in the BCCI for the same. If they are ready to play Pakistan, we will be more than happy to offer our venue for the same.”



“India-Pakistan matches are one of the most-followed sporting events of the world. They are the fiercest rivals in sporting fraternity across all the sports. It generates a huge interest of the fans and the media alike,” he added.



Indian and Pakistan have not played any bilateral series for over a decade owing to the cross-border tension between the south-Asians rivals.



Apart from the World Cup, BCCI also shifted Indian Premier League (IPL), world’s richest cricket league, to the UAE a month prior to the start of the mega event.



This was the third time the IPL was shifted to the UAE. In 2014, in the wake of the general elections the super-rich league was played in the UAE, followed by the full edition of 2020, but behind the closed doors.



The remaining matches of 2021 edition were also shifted after a surge in the coronavirus cases in India brought the league to an abrupt halt, which forced the organisers to take it out of the country.



Falaknaz said he is relishing the prospect of hosting more IPL matches in future if BCCI wants it.



“In 2014, when they shifted the IPL to the UAE due to elections, We gave them a warm reception. It all depends on the BCCI to decide what they want to do."



“We are very friendly with them. They have seen our potential in 2014 and more this year. In 2014, they played 20 matches. Out of the 20 matches, 19 were fully sold.



“Dubai Sports City proved to be outstanding venue with the two ICC Academy grounds and because of the capacity of the state-of-the-art stadium.



“So, I would invite BCCI to come and hold their IPL matches. Even if it is part of IPL to start here and finish in India or to start in India and finish in Dubai.



“And they know the potential and they have been looked after in such a good and friendly way that they are very happy with us,” he stressed.



Falaknaz poured his heart out in a candid conversation with a few selected media personnel of the country.



He, himself was a fairly good cricketer and has been serving the game for years.



Going down the memory lane, he revealed about his journey from a player to an administrator.

“After coming back from India, I introduced cricket in Dubai. In 1981. DCC was formed and the rest is history,” he apprised.

https://www.gulftoday.ae/sport/2021/11/22/ddc-chief-falaknaz-looks-to-host-more-india-pakistan-ties

Climate Change: Albania will launch wind power generation activities

By Greta Gjinaj

21 November 2021 / 08:00

The Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy in Albania has announced that it will hold on November 24, 2021 an activity for potential bidders for its first tender for wind power generation projects with a total utility scale between 100 MW and 150 MW .

Referring to the "Wind Project", participation in this tender is limited and individual projects with a capacity between 10 MW and 75 MW can apply.

Until its finalization, the bidders will go through several stages. It is currently in the first phase as a project.

Developers are invited to submit their qualification submissions by June 13, 2022 - the deadline to respond to the eligibility request for proposals from successful first phase applicants.

Bidders will then be asked to propose sites for wind farm development, financing, construction and operation. As well as to submit a financial offer. This second phase will have a deadline until February 2023.

To facilitate the tender process, the webinar will provide detailed information about the tender procedure and selection requirements.

The tender is part of the Albanian government's action on energy and climate change to diversify renewable energy sources, provide safe energy and attract sufficient investment in sustainable low carbon technologies.

The "Bidders' Conference" will take place virtually, in a "Webinar Zoom", on November 24, 2021 from 14:00 - 16:45.

An open invitation has been published on the official website of the Ministry. Potential bidders and other interested parties can register online.

Earlier, the Albanian government expressed its commitment to set the country on a consistent path towards the goal of renewable energy and the promotion of ambitious actions for climate change, maximizing benefits and minimizing costs for consumers and taxpayers.

Exactly for this purpose, on June 22 of this year, MEI started the two-stage tender process for the selection of energy production through wind.

Albania and renewable energy

The National Agency of Natural Resources in Albania ( AKBN ) announced in September that 29 companies have received preliminary or final approval for the construction of solar and wind power plants.

In this way, according to the agency, an increase of generating capacities in the country will be seen.

AKBN also announced that the certification of 12 photovoltaic plants is expected by the end of this year.

Details on the status of these approvals were announced during the workshop "Promotion of European measures for sustainable renewable energy".

The focus of this project, funded by the European Union, was the importance of renewable energy.

The countries involved in this project are Italy, Albania and Montenegro.

https://albanianpost.com/ndryshimet-klimatike-shqiperia-do-te-nise-aktivitete-per-prodhimin-e-energjise-nepermjet-eres/