I dont care too much how Falak is developing his business. I know he is moving forward. Im only asking myself when and I think we are very close.
We ve done a lot of DD and Im very happy with my decision to hold to the end...

I believe that too. And at some point I know that all you are saying will happen.
PSPW

For an unknown reason it seems Falak dont vare about SEC rule.
Falak knows this rules but the timming of the projects dont coordinate whit SEC. I know he dont abandon his energy pretentions.
I think they are working in a merger or go private.
Both sceneries are fine to me. GLTY!

Two days to Grey...
PSPW

Albania - Hydropower privatization

As part of a broader effort to liberalize and reform its energy sector, the Albanian Ministry of Economy, Trade and Energy decided to privatize four hydropower plants with a combined capacity of 76.7 megawatts. Some of the plants were in need of rehabilitation to allow them to operate with increased efficiency, safety, and reliability. Following advice from IFC, the four plants were packaged into two companies and privatized through transparent and highly competitive international tenders. They will be operated in compliance with strict environmental standards.

https://olcstage.worldbank.org/content/albania-hydropower-privatization

https://olcstage.worldbank.org/search?search_api_views_fulltext=Energy%20Conservation%20and%20Efficiency&page=5

I agree.

Very intresting interview that show us how difficult is to do business in the Albanian energy sector...

Mr. Dietmar REINER – VERBUND’s Country Representative and CEO of Energji Ashta
April 20, 2017

“An independent, functioning and reliable justice system is a basic element required for all!”

FIAA: During the first four years of the operation phase of the Ashta Hydro Power Plant, what have been the most significant challenges that you have had to overcome?

Mr. Dietmar Reiner: We have invested more than 200 Million EURO until end of 2012 to build a state of the art Hydro Power Plant. VERBUND and its partner EVN were the first large–scale private investors entering the Albanian Energy Sector. Due to the difficult situation in 2008, the time when the concession agreement has been signed, it was agreed with the government to enter into a long-term power offtake agreement. This agreement entered into force in April 2013, until June 2016 KESH was the off-taker, but then it was transferred to OSHEE. In the last four years there were a lot of challenges in the Albanian energy sector, especially in the downstream business, with the difficult situation in the distribution system and the supply to endcustomers. These difficulties also influenced our business; we were mainly suffering from payment delays which created for some periods huge arrears mainly to our lenders. Due to the background of our shareholders as large public utilities in the energy sector in Austria, the understanding of the situation and our belief in the success of the necessary reform in the energy sector, we and also our shareholders and lenders kept calm and focused during this time.


What has been the key to success in overcoming them?

First Point, even after the political change in 2013 there was continuity in the close and good cooperation with the government and our main local partners, the offtakers. This is a very important factor for foreign investors. Second, the reforms of the power sector initiated in 2013 have been successful – just compare the daily media 2013 and now. Third, our contract partners managed to demonstrate respect of contract conditions and we have proven our understanding of the situation. I am convinced, it was the best for all involved parties to find an amicable and mutual solution for the problems arising during this time.

From your perspective, how has the business operating environment for foreign investors changed in the last years?

I would like to answer in the political tradition of my home country as neutral and as fair as possible: The initiation of the current ongoing large infrastructure investments in Albania, TAP and the Devoll HPP, have been made long time ago, but the current government has proven business continuity to these investors. This is a good sign for new investors considering investing in Albania. It should not be forgotten, that the economy in Europe is since years in a “crisis modus” and the appetite of European based strategic investors, like we are, is significantly reduced. So the reduced investments here are not only due the situation in Albania.

Finally, I would like to encourage the current and the next government to continue with reforms and to successfully compete with the other south east European countries for new foreign investments.

What are your expectations for the performance of the Albanian economy in the current situation being in the middle of the electoral year? To your opinion what are the upside and downside risks in the medium term?

I believe in continuation of existing businesses, but only after the electoral campaign and after successful formation of the next government we may expect new reforms, drivers and initiation for new investments and business. I really hope, that the justice reform get back on track as soon as possible, the justice system gets unblocked and out of bad news. An independent, functioning and reliable justice system is a basic element required for all, not only for investors as we are.

What improvements in the business operating environment do you feel are critical to attract more foreign investment in Albania?

The key for Albania’s future is the ability of the Albanian political decision makers to overcome the current democratic crisis and transfer the situation into a win-win situation for the Albanian society. The second key criteria is the successful implementation of the justice reform. Every new investor eyeing on Albania is immediately focused on these issues.

http://fiaalbania.al/interview-with-mr-dietmar-reiner-verbunds-country-representative-and-ceo-of-energji-ashta/

LOL put one of yours too. And we will know who buy em first!!!
GLTY

LOL me too. They know we cant buy... And now the game is only for theirs.

Red ones in tje Shala River... look at the size. The bigger is HEC Vajvisht.

Balkan rivers 2020 update

In page 29 we can see our dams on the map

https://www.balkanrivers.net/uploads/files/3/Balkan_HPP_Update_2020.pdf

Me too, and my phone...
Perhaps...

http://3powershala.com/ site down?

China- Arab States, Traditional Friends and Strategic Partners!
08/31/2021 - 3:12 pm

Interesting reading

Falak dont want to go private...
Why he would get involved in PSPW listed in OTC?

Albanian Electricity Balancing Market Rules Go Live As Of April 2021

15 September 2021

by Jola Gjuzi

The Albanian electricity sector has met another milestone towards a more liberalized and functional market. As of 1 April 2021, the Albanian Electricity Balancing Market Rules have entered into full force and effect, marking the official commencement of the balancing market in Albania.

The foundational rules for the creation and operation of an electricity balancing market were already set out in the Power Sector Law 43/2015 and the Transitional Electricity Market Rules (approved by the Energy Regulatory Entity (ERE) Board of Commissioners' Decision no. 139 of 15 August 2016). The market is operated by the Transmission System Operator (OST SHA) which is responsible for keeping the grid system in balance and, to that effect, for procuring balancing services from balance service providers.

The process of establishing in detail the balancing market started in 2018, upon entry into force of the Transitional Electricity Balancing Mechanism Rules (ERE Decision no. 193 of 24 November 2017).

These Rules set out a transitory legal framework on the basis of which the electricity balancing market would start to function. Liability for the costs of imbalances incurred was attached to all electricity market participants registered as balance responsible parties, except for existing priority producers (ie hydropower generators with a capacity up to 15 MW that have commissioned their plants before 2020 and which benefited from the Albanian Government's supportive measures). This was in line with the transitory rules of the Renewable Energy Law no. 17/2017. The Law excluded from the said liability the existing priority producers up until the creation of a balancing market, but no later than 31st of December 2022.

Moreover, the key role of a balancing service provider to OST SHA, was given to the Albanian Power Corporation (KESH SHA - the owner of the largest generating plants). In the absence of a local market price, the imbalance settlement was to be performed by OST SHA, using reference hourly prices from the Hungarian day-ahead market (HUPX).

In 2020, the ERE Board of Commissioners took another step towards the establishment of the balancing market by approving the (non-transitional) Albanian Electricity Balancing Market Rules (Decision no. 106 of 2 July 2020). Such rules circumvented the provisional aspects of the Transitional Rules and provided in more detail the roles of the parties involved as well as the terms and conditions under which the balancing market and particularly the imbalance settlement processes can operate. ERE set out a dry run trial period (without financial effects for the parties) of such Rules (Decision no. 275 of 28 December 2020). It would initially last until 31 December 2020; subsequently extended until 31 March 2021.

On 31 March 2021, ERE implicitly confirmed the end of the trial period and entry into full force and effect of the Balancing Market Rules as of 1 April 2021. However, it also accepted OST request for an extended transition on two matters for which reference shall be made again to the previous Transitional Rules: (i) mechanism of financial guarantee that OST shall apply for the balancing market participants, until ERE makes another decision; and (ii) application of the 1-hour time interval for the processes of nominations and respective disbalance calculations, until 30 June 2021.

Overall, despite the extended application of a few Transitional Rules, and the option for OST and other market participants to propose further improvements to the existing Market Balancing Rules, the ERE Board of Commissioners has acknowledged the commencement of operation of the Electricity Balancing Market in Albania. This should give positive economic signals to market participants and investors as well as improve the operation of the intra-day, day-ahead and longer terms markets.



Certainly, a fully functional electricity balance market in Albania will also require the operation of the Albanian Power Exchange (ALPEX), another objective which should be achieved in a short time.


https://www.mondaq.com/oil-gas-electricity/1111004/albanian-electricity-balancing-market-rules-go-live-as-of-april-2021

Our shovel ready project was builded by Kelag, Verbund or Interenergo for this reason PSPW has established the arbitration court in Vienna.
IMHO.

The Austrian Foreign Minister praises the UAE’s investment expertise
September 12, 2021 by adminj99

Abu Dhabi (Etihad)

His Excellency Alexander Schallenberg, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Austria, praised the prestigious position that the UAE took on the regional and international maps, and for its ability and pioneering investment competence to deliver business incubators. His Excellency – during his visit and the accompanying diplomatic delegation to the headquarters of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry – welcomed Austria to Emirati investors and stressed its willingness to provide all means to facilitate the launch of their businesses and investments in its country. , and to increase trade between the two friendly countries. During the visit, the Austrian Foreign Minister discussed with Abdullah Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Deputies, ways to improve investment opportunities and commercial cooperation between entrepreneurs in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the Republic of Austria, in a way that serves both business and investor interests. .
Abdullah Mohammed Al Mazrouei stressed that the UAE is the most important economic partner for Austria in the region, which is translated by the many high-level coordination meetings held by the two sides, with the aim of strengthening partnership and developing a framework for trade and investment cooperation based on the support of the managements of the two countries and the size of the opportunities offered by the United Arab Emirates and Austrian economies.In addition to their agreement on the principles of economic transparency, which helps to draw a clear roadmap for future cooperation. He noted the willingness of the Abu Dhabi Chamber to strengthen cooperation and effective partnerships between Austrian companies and entrepreneurs and their colleagues in Abu Dhabi by taking advantage of the great potential that the emirate offers investors, especially in the industrial, service, tourism, energy and technology sectors. and other areas of common interest. The meeting was attended by Dr. Mohammed Rashid Al Hamli, Chairman of the Board of Emirates Steel, Rashid Abdul Karim Al Balushi, Deputy Secretary of the Department of Economic Development – Abu Dhabi, Saeed Ghamran Al Rumaithi, Deputy Treasurer of the Board of Abu Dhabi Chamber, Fouad Fahmy Darwish, Board Member of Abu Dhabi Chamber, and Marwa Al Mansouri, Member of the Board of Directors of the Abu Dhabi Chamber, Mohammed Hilal Al Muhairi, Director – General of the Abu Dhabi Chamber and Abdullah Gharir Al Qubaisi, Deputy Director – General of the Chamber.

https://j99news.com/2021/09/12/the-austrian-foreign-minister-praises-the-uaes-investment-expertise/

Ive told with Lorenc two or three times months ago. He didnt know anything about shala project. I dont know if he do it now. I will write him sunday. He write intresting posts on his blog and linkedin.
Have a great weekend

I cant request the full list of investments project from this very intresting website... not long ago it was published the Shala Project.
Meybe you or someonelse could.

https://hydropowerbalkans.com/

GLTY

I'm seeing light at the final of this tunnel... 3 weeks
PSPW

A lot...

Licenses, ERE issued 13 new ones this year from the production of energy in HPPs to gas
4 hours ago

The Energy Regulatory Entity (ERE) licensed at least 13 entities during this year according to official data published by this institution itself.

Most of the licenses belong to those of power generation from hydropower plants as well as trade, while for some special categories there is still no new entry being kept exclusively as markets by public companies or other cases where there is no finalized any project such as wind energy.

Until August of this year, ERE had issued at least five new licenses for energy production from hydropower plants / thermal power plants when a total of 157 licenses of this nature are active throughout the market.

In terms of trading, six new licenses have been issued, thus being the dominant part of those who have received "ok" of the Energy Regulatory Authority to continue the activity. In total, 110 licenses are active in the market in terms of energy trading.

Only one license has been issued for the supply of electricity during this year for a company, while in the active market there are 27 licenses of this nature.

Another license granted during this year is to natural gas and this is related to the transmission of gas granted to the TAP pipeline on June 30, 2021. This license has a term of 30 years from the date of commencement of operation. The pipeline started commercial activity in the last months of last year.

The ERE has not issued any new licenses to photovoltaics and windmills during this year because investments in especially in wind farms have been lacking, while for photovoltaics two large projects are already on the verge of implementation.

Broadcasting and distribution are two licenses held by public companies.

The presence in the market of a large number of companies that have as object the activity from production to trade or supply of energy creates more opportunities for those businesses that are in the free market to provide energy independently, this in the conditions when the number is expected to grow even with affiliated companies in 20kv. So far, the market entry of a good part, mainly those connected to 35 kv, has resulted in salty prices related to the unfavorable hydric situation.

While a mitigating element of this situation was expected to be the Energy Exchange which according to the initial plans should have started operating a long time ago but which is currently still in the procurement phase of the platform./N.Maho


https://www.monitor.al/licencat-ere-leshoi-13-te-reja-gjate-ketij-viti-nga-prodhimi-i-energjise-ne-hec-e-tek-gazi/

SINOSURE underwrites largest-ever 'overseas warehouse' project in Dubai

2021-09-01 12:06:27 Source: Belt and Road Portal

China Export & Credit Insurance Corporation (SINOSURE) has recently underwritten the Yiwu Market UAE overseas warehouse trade city project in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with an insured amount of $13.814 million.

It is the first public overseas warehouse investment project integrating investment, construction and operation in East China’s Zhejiang Province.

It is also the largest overseas warehouse investment insurance project underwritten by SINOSURE. Located in the heart of Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) in Dubai, which is close to the Expo 2020 Dubai, the project aims to forge a world-class trade service platform jointly built by Zhejiang China Commodity City Group (CCC) and DP World.

Integrating commodity showrooms, bonded warehouses, logistics transit and other functions, the platform utilizes the advantages of CCC and DP World to enhance the trade volume of companies on the platform, support the Belt and Road Initiative, further improve Chinese networking in Dubai and elevate the influence of Chinese brands.

The project covers an area of 210,000 square meters, with a reach to markets in the Middle East and North Africa regions. Despite the impact of COVID-19 on international trade, the project strengthens Chinese products’ presence in overseas markets through a “store in front of warehouse” model, which effectively facilitates foreign purchases of Chinese products.

Editor: ??

https://eng.yidaiyilu.gov.cn/qwyw/rdxw/185412.htm

Sarah Falaknaz is in the managment board of DP world

DASH report for 2021: High corruption, PPPs are a constant concern, how American investors are being hindered
1 month ago

The US Department of State (DASH) Business Climate Report 2021, recently published, is again expressed with high critical marks for the business climate in Albania.

The report says corruption in the judiciary and procurement is common. DASH also emphasizes public-private partnership (PPP) projects, which are considered problematic, without a clear cost-benefit analysis and which have reduced the possibility of competition, including from foreign investors. As a result of court problems, DASH notes that the efforts of an American company to invest in Albania were thwarted.

According to the report, endemic corruption continues to undermine the rule of law and jeopardize economic development. Foreign investors cite corruption, especially in the judiciary, lack of transparency in public procurement, the informal economy and poor contract enforcement as some of the biggest problems in Albania. Albania is still one of the most corrupt countries in Europe, according to the Corruption Perceptions Index and other indicators.

The report states: “Despite a sound legal framework and progress in e-reforms, foreign investors perceive Albania as a difficult place to do business. They cite corruption, especially in the judiciary, lack of transparency in public procurement, unfair competition, the informal economy, frequent changes in fiscal legislation and poor contract enforcement as ongoing problems in Albania. Reports of corruption in government procurement are common.

The increasing use of public-private partnership (PPP) contracts has reduced competition opportunities, including for foreign investors, in infrastructure and other sectors. Poor cost-benefit analysis and lack of technical expertise in drafting and monitoring PPP contracts are ongoing concerns.

American investors are challenged by corruption and the continuation of informal business practices. Several U.S. investors have faced controversial trade disputes with both public and private entities, including some that went to international arbitration.

In 2019 and 2020, the investment effort of an American company is suspected to have been thwarted by several court decisions and dubious actions of stakeholders involved in an investment dispute. "The issue is now in international arbitration," the report said.

Many foreign investors complain that endemic judicial corruption and inefficient court proceedings undermine judicial protection in Albania and require international arbitration to resolve disputes.

The report goes on to say that property rights continue to be a challenge in Albania because it is difficult to win a clear title. There have been cases where individuals are suspected of manipulating the judicial system to obtain illegal land titles. Overlapping property titles is a serious and common issue. The process of compensating for land confiscated by the former communist regime continues to be difficult, inefficient and inadequate. However, parliament passed a law on registering property claims on April 16, 2020 which will facilitate title holders.

The Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index 2020 ranked Albania 104th out of 180 countries, a two-place improvement from 2019. Albania dropped 19 places in the World Bank Doing Business 2020 study, ranking 82nd, falling from 63rd in 2019. Although this change can be partly attributed to the implementation of a new methodology, the country continues to have poor results in the areas of issuing construction permits, paying taxes , contract enforcement, property registration, electricity generation and protection of minority investors.

To address endemic corruption, in 2016 the government government enacted comprehensive constitutional changes to reform the country’s judicial system and improve the rule of law. Implementation of judicial reform is on property, including vetting judges and prosecutors for unexplained assets. More than half of the judges and prosecutors who underwent vetting were fired for unexplained assets or links to organized crime. The EU expects Albania to show progress in prosecuting judges and prosecutors whose verification revealed possible criminal behavior. Implementation of judicial reform is ongoing, and its completion is expected to improve the investment climate in the country, the report said.

https://www.monitor.al/raporti-i-dash-per-2021-korrupsion-i-larte-ppp-te-jane-shqetesim-i-vazhdueshem-si-po-pengohen-investitoret-amerikane/

Updated 6 days ago... I dont understand too much about his.

https://www.aihitdata.com/company/0248D96C/3-power-shala/overview

Changes history

https://www.aihitdata.com/company/0248D96C/3-power-shala/history

Does not a sufficient prove that Shala project is movingforward?
The payments were made...




from a shared article

1 miliard euro koncesione për 4 vite, cilat janë PROJEKTET dhe KOMPANITË që janë dyndur në para: Nga Gjoka te Bardhi Konstruksion dhe Bushtrica Hydropower (E PLOTË)1 miliard euro koncesione për 4 vite, cilat janë PROJEKTET dhe KOMPANITË që janë dyndur në para: Nga Gjoka te Bardhi Konstruksion dhe Bushtrica Hydropower (E PLOTË)

https://newsbomb.al/1-miliard-euro-koncesione-per-4-vite-cilat-jane-projektet-dhe-kompanite-qe-jane-dyndur-ne-para-nga-gjoka-te-bardhi-konstruksion-dhe-bushtrica-hydropower-e-plote/

Try this one... EN version is not working but I use translator

https://www.powerchina.cn/

Falaks times isnt ours...
Put in his position. Do you care what are saying or needing less than 3% of his company?

Of course. Remember our 3Bn loan. Falak wouldnt move forward his energy projects for a single 100 millons in an insignificant country and involving the major league companies.
This has no sense definitively..

China Energy Engineering Corporation

CGGC is one of the subsidiarie

Document of the merger

http://en.ceec.net.cn/module/download/downfile.jsp?classid=0&showname=ANNOUNCEMENT%20ON%20THE%20PUT%20OPTION%20OF%20MERGER%20AND.pdf&filename=6a989c7f8ab542f99aee2954d941ad8d.pdf

website
http://en.ceec.net.cn/col/col47313/index.html

China-Arab States Energy Co-op Forum to focus on low-carbon energy cooperation
2021-08-16 12:03:42

BEIJING, Aug. 16 (Xinhua) -- The China-Arab States Energy Cooperation Forum, which is part of the Fifth China-Arab States Expo, is scheduled to be held from August 19 to 20 in Yinchuan, capital of northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, with focus on low-carbon energy cooperation between China and the Arab States, according to a press conference on Sunday.

The forum will center on clean energy application technology, low-carbon economy, energy transition, and expand China-Arab States cooperation in new fields such as solar power, wind power, nuclear energy and hydrogen energy on the basis of consolidating traditional collaboration in oil and natural gas areas.

Efforts will be made to deepen China-Arab States cooperation in the whole industrial chain of oil and natural gas exploration, development, refining, storage and transportation, strengthen construction of energy internet, and jointly promote the commercial application of hydrogen energy and energy storage, said Wang Hanwu, deputy director of the Development and Reform Commission of Ningxia.

Special online and offline clean energy exhibition areas will be set up during this year's expo to display emerging technologies and products of new energy, energy storage, nuclear energy and other clean energies. A total of 28 domestic and foreign exhibitors will participate in the offline exhibition and 29 enterprises will show their offerings online. (Edited by Su Dan with Xinhua Silk Road, sudan@xinhua.org)

Editor:Su Dan

https://en.imsilkroad.com/db/#/home/searchType/All/1/UAE/searchDetail/323241/content/China-Arab%20States%20Energy%20Co-op%20Forum%20to%20focus%20on%20low-carbon%20energy%20cooperation?kw=energy%20cooperation,China-Arab%20States%20Expo&country=Sudan,China

The BRICS New Development Bank expands its "friend circle" for the first time
2021-09-03 13:10:47

On September 2, the Shanghai-based New Development Bank of the BRICS officially announced that it will welcome three new member states-the UAE, Uruguay and Bangladesh. The expanded "circle of friends" demonstrates the magnetism of the BRICS cooperation mechanism and the gradually increasing global influence of banks.


This is the headquarters building of the New Development Bank in the Shanghai World Expo Park (taken on December 17, 2020, UAV photo). Photo by Xinhua News Agency reporter Fang Zhe

In the second half of 2020, the New Development Bank Board of Governors authorized the bank to conduct formal negotiations with interested member states. Related negotiations proceeded smoothly, and the New Development Bank approved the admission of the UAE, Uruguay and Bangladesh as the first batch of new members.

"We very much welcome the United Arab Emirates, Uruguay and Bangladesh to join the New Development Bank family. The New Development Bank will become a platform for member countries to promote cooperation in infrastructure and sustainable development." New Development Bank President Marco said that the bank will continue Promote the recruitment of new members in an orderly and balanced manner.


This is the headquarters building of the New Development Bank in the Shanghai World Expo Park (taken on December 17, 2020, panoramic photo by drone). Photo by Xinhua News Agency reporter Fang Zhe

It is reported that after obtaining the approval of the bank, the new member states need to complete the relevant domestic procedures, and formally become a new member after depositing the letter of accession with the New Development Bank.

Since the start of operations, the New Development Bank has approved approximately 80 projects in member countries with a total loan amount of US$30 billion. The project covers areas such as transportation, water resources and sanitation, clean energy, digital infrastructure, social infrastructure, and urban development.

The New Development Bank was jointly established by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. It aims to mobilize resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in emerging economies and developing countries such as the BRICS, and supplement multilateral and regional financial institutions for global growth. And development efforts.


This is the headquarters building of the New Development Bank in the Shanghai World Expo Park (taken on December 17, 2020, UAV photo). Photo by Xinhua News Agency reporter Fang Zhe

(Original title: The BRICS New Development Bank expands its "Circle of Friends" for the first time)

https://www.yidaiyilu.gov.cn/xwzx/hwxw/185785.htm

I cant understand people selling at this point... It would be in the opposite way... buy all you can!

Energy Arbitration Disputes and Trends in Albania

23 aug 2021

Dr Lorenc Gordani's Energy Blog

Sara Falaknaz in DEWA

DEWA organises 7th Emirati Women’s Forum
26 August 2021

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) organised the 7th Emirati Women’s Forum virtually and physically. His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, Her Excellency Sara Mohammad Falaknaz, Federal National Council Member; Dr. Hessa Lootah, Media Professor and first Emirati female TV director; and Dr. Manal Taryam, CEO of Primary Healthcare Services Sector, Dubai Health Authority, participated in the forum. This is in celebration of Emirati Women’s Day 2021, held under the theme ‘Women: Ambitions & Inspiration for Next 50 Years.’

DEWA held the forum at its DEWA Campus for Occupational and Academic Development, following all precautionary measures in the UAE to limit the spread of COVID-19. A live broadcast of the forum was shared on DEWA’s social media, among female employees and women’s committees across Dubai government.

“I am pleased to join you today in celebrating Emirati Women’s Day 2021 under the theme ‘Women: Ambitions & Inspiration for Next 50 Years.’ This event highlights the successful journey of women empowerment in the UAE, instilled by the late Founding Father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may his soul rest in peace, and supported by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE; His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai; and Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood (Mother of the Nation), to strengthen women’s position and enhance their pivotal role as effective partners in the development process,” said Al Tayer in his keynote speech.

“Our celebration of Emirati Women’s Day this year is especially important on the Year of the Fiftieth, where we celebrate 50 years of the fastest and most noble journey in building the country and its people. This year, we increase our efforts to prepare for the upcoming 50 years of prosperity and benevolence, especially with the preparations to host the best version of Expo 2020 Dubai. On this occasion, I would like to congratulate Emirati women who proved their competence during the challenging year of 2020 in achieving the wise leadership’s vision to turn challenges into opportunities. They played a significant role in curbing the COVID-19 pandemic and accelerating its recovery process. They are the main pillars of outstanding milestones achieved by the UAE over the past year, including their formation of 18% of workers in the space sector and 34% of the Hope Probe team, which is considered one of the highest percentages worldwide. Women also play a leading role on the frontline against the COVID-19 pandemic, as they form 64% of doctors, nurses, and technicians in the country’s health sector,” added Al Tayer.

“DEWA female employees record daily achievements that guide our global excellence and leadership journey. They spare no effort in serving the nation in all fields. This exemplifies the role of Emirati women as role models in building a cohesive society capable of adjusting to change. DEWA provides a positive and motivating work environment to empower and support women in their pioneering role of serving society and bringing up future generations. We harness all resources to help them balance their professional and social lives, unleash their talents and contribute to making a positive and sustainable impact. The number of female employees has reached 1,943 employees across our divisions. This includes 720 women in the engineering and technical sectors and 311 employees in managerial positions. Emirati women form 81.5% of the total female workforce at DEWA. 34.2% of the R&D Centre’s staff are Emirati women who are highly educated in science and engineering areas. Our female employees participate in several volunteering activities. The total number of volunteering hours in 2020 was more than 13,300 hours in 40 social and humanitarian initiatives. Female employees at DEWA contribute effectively to conservation and social awareness programmes, especially those that target women. We provide opportunities for both genders in managerial and technical positions and women’s empowerment, making DEWA role models in the public and private sector locally and internationally; with DEWA being key government supporters to women in the energy sector. In conclusion, I would like to praise Emirati women’s efforts and their impactful contributions that make our country the best and the strongest. God bless your work and efforts. Happy Emirati Women’s Day,” said Al Tayer.

Her Excellency Sara Mohammad Falaknaz, Federal National Council Member, emphasised that the UAE’s wise leadership paid remarkable attention to women; supporting and empowering them in all areas, as well as helping them build confidence in their ability to achieve success and excellence across all areas of work. Her Excellency noted that our beloved country has numerous examples of women who have raised its flag fluttering high regionally and globally. Emirati women represent their country in various international forums across all sectors. Her Excellency commended the endeavours of the exceptional leadership in developing the capabilities and skills of Emirati women to be ready to play their role in shaping our future. The UAE has invested in the success women have achieved over the past five decades to play a more efficient and influential role in achieving the UAE’s strategy for the next fifty years.

“Those who know our region closely are aware of the inaccuracy of the prevailing perception among some, especially in western countries, about Arab women, especially with regard to their role in public life. Throughout the ages, Arab women have had a very strong presence in all areas of life,” said Dr. Hessa Lootah, Media Professor and first Emirati female television director.

Dr Lootah emphasised that Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation, has supported and empowered Emirati women’s success in all areas of society.

“On Emirati Women’s Day, we say, may the soul of the Founding Father the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan rest in peace. Since the first day of the Union, he ensured that Emirati women become key partners of the country’s growth, development, and prosperity. On this day, we can only express our highest thanks and gratitude to our wise leadership for their generous care for women and for their sound guidance, which paved the way for Emirati women to occupy the highest positions. Emirati women have become global role models with their achievements across all areas. We also extend our thanks and gratitude to Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood (Mother of the Nation) for her unlimited support to women. On this day, we proudly say that Emirati women have proven their success in all fields, including the health sector, the most vibrant and competitive in the world. We see this already in Dubai Health Authority, which has many distinguished Emirati women across all positions and jobs. In 2020, the percentage of Emirati women in leadership positions in the health sector was 63.2%, and Emirati female doctors were 6% of the total licensed doctors in the UAE. However, the percentage of Emirati women in the nursing sector does not exceed 2%, which requires more initiatives to support Emirati women in this vital sector. The percentage of Emirati women is higher in some medical specialities, such as family medicine, where it reached 32%, psychiatry, which is 15%, and community medicine, which is 90%. We are happy and proud that Allah has blessed us to be Emirati women,” said Dr Manal Taryam, CEO of Primary Healthcare Services Sector at Dubai Health Authority.

“On behalf of DEWA’s female employees, I would like to express my gratitude to the top management of DEWA, which provides all necessary support to our female employees. It provides all capabilities to enhance the Emirati women’s position as a key and effective partner in society, supporting DEWA Women’s Committee to excel in their work, and helping female employees to keep pace with changes. This maintains their position as a role model of effective national work and a key partner for sustainable development,” said Fatima Al Jokar, Chairperson of DEWA Women’s Committee.

The 7th Emirati Women’s Forum included a variety of panel discussions. The key panel discussion was entitled “Emirati Women: the place of the soul and the soul of the place” with the participation of HE Sara Falaknaz, Dr Manal Taryam, and Dr Hessa Lootah.

The second panel discussion highlighted DEWA’s role in women empowerment under the title ‘DEWA’s support to women: Bright experience for sustainable development.’ Many female employees at DEWA participated in the panel, speaking about their role in consolidating the values of giving back to the nation, highlighting their efforts to advance government work. The forum included success stories by DEWA’s female employees working in clean and renewable energy, and their substantial role in this vital and futuristic field.

Like previous editions of the forum, DEWA honoured several female Emirati staff who have contributed effectively to DEWA’s excellence and global leadership. A video showcased the journey of Emirati women at DEWA and in the UAE over the past 50 years. During the Forum, DEWA organised an interactive exhibition with Emirati cultural activities.

https://www.dewa.gov.ae/en/about-us/media-publications/latest-news/2021/08/dewa-organises-7th-emirati-womens-forum

North Macedonia starts construction of first power link with Albania

August 30, 2021

North Macedonia has started the construction of the 400 kV power link Bitola-Elbasan, the first with Albania. Albania is the only neighboring country with which North Macedonia didn’t have such a connection.
The construction of the Bitola-Elbasan power line, with a total length of 97.4 kilometers, has started with the construction of the new 400/100 kV substation near Ohrid.

North Macedonia’s Prime Minister Zoran Zaev said that with the EUR 50 million investment, the East-West electricity corridor will be put into full function, enabling the transit of electricity from Bulgaria, through North Macedonia and Albania to Italy.

The power link is is scheduled to go online in 2023

The power link will complete energy Corridor 8, a segment of a much larger project that includes the use of energy resources from the Caucasus region and from Central Asia and their transfer to the Balkans.

In February 2020, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Energoinvest and Croatia’s Koncar were awarded by North Macedonia’s transmission system operator (TSO) MEPSO with contracts worth EUR 35 million for the power link. The two companies will install a new 400 kV line to connect the country with Albania, a new 400/100 kV substation near Ohrid and an extension of Bitola 2 substation.

It is the largest investment in the transmission network in the country, which is scheduled to go online in 2023, Zaev said.

Zaev said North Macedonia has five 400 kV power links: two with Greece and one with Serbia, Kosovo* and Bulgaria, and that the new one will complete the connection with electricity transmission systems of all neighboring countries.

COVID-19 restrictions didn’t slow down preparations
MEPSO Director Kuštrim Ramadani noted the investment is financed by a EUR 12 million grant from the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF), an EUR 37 million loan from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and MEPSO’s own funds.

Despite the difficult conditions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, MEPSO managed to start the major project with a delay of only a few weeks, Ramadani pointed out.

The investment will contribute to the regional integration of the energy markets

Minister of Economy Krešnik Bekteši said the Bitola-Elbasan power line will contribute to the regional integration of the energy markets. It will improve the security of electricity supply, and increase electricity price competitiveness, he added.

Ilir Bejta, Albania’s Deputy Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, said the capital project creates opportunities for new investments.

https://balkangreenenergynews.com/north-macedonia-starts-construction-of-first-power-link-with-albania/

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Albanian Prime Minister Wants Albania to be Regional Leader in Renewable Energy

28th Aug 2021

Prime Minister Edi Rama said that Albania is set to take the regional lead for solar power and aims to be a regional champion in renewable energy by 2030.

In a speech to close his second term as Prime Minister, he said that Albania was “suffocating under waste and pollution” eight years ago but now it’s “much different”. This is despite the fact that in eight years, there are no state or even mass recycling plants, four incinerators have been issued permits, and dumping in landfills has reached an all-time high. Furthermore, Tirana continues to suffer from significant air pollution and is one of the worst places in Europe. The city is also one of Europe’s main contributors of plastic waste to the Mediterranean, despite it not even being located on the coast.

Rama said that the fight to protect the environment should intensify as “primitive landfills and the troubling water and air pollution” are just a small part of the problem.

He boasted of the two solar power plants at Karavasta and Spitalle, failing to mention that one of the recently launched floating solar plants had sunk shortly after being launched.

The Prime Minister also claimed that the country is set to become a net energy exporter by the end of the decade, highlighting the Skavica Hydropower plant as a contributor. He didn’t mention that hydropower is not green or sustainable and that due to climate change, Albania is not considered a suitable location for such structures.

Solar power and wind power are considered the most viable and sustainable forms of energy for Albania.

Energy Arbitration Disputes and Trends in Albania

By Lorenc Gordani