Concerns raised over new coal mining project in light of North Macedonia’s decarbonisation goals
May 27, 2025
CEE Bankwatch Network and Eko-svest have recently raised serious concerns regarding a proposed coal mining project in North Macedonia. The plan to open a new lignite mine in the Pelagonija region comes as a surprise, as the region is already affected by three other operating mines and the project contradicts the country’s coal phase-out commitments.
Black wool over the EBRD’s eyes
May 13, 2025
Based on the North Macedonian government and state-owned energy utility AD ESM’s supposed commitment to a green energy transformation and just transition, the EBRD is supporting ESM with liquidity loans and technical assistance. However, in a not unexpected turn of events, the company is moving forward with the opening of a new lignite mine.
Why the EBRD must end support for primary forest biomass in the Western Balkans
May 7, 2025
This issue paper presents case studies from Bosnia and Herzegovina that highlight how EBRD-backed large-scale biomass projects have faced significant challenges related to sustainability, affordability, and fuel supply.
Proposal for just transition in Western Balkans for next Multiannual Financial Framework
May 2, 2025
With the financing for just transition on the EU level under threat, the ambition for moving forward with just transition on the local level in the Western Balkans is rapidly decreasing because the EU is not prioritising the process. To revive ambition
Pedalling forward in Daugavpils: Towards a cyclist-friendly city
April 14, 2025
On the afternoon of 28 March, residents, municipal representatives, and locally elected officials joined a panel of experts in the Latvian city of Daugavpils to discuss the future of cycling in the city. The aim of the event was to identify existing challenges as well as practical solutions that might encourage more residents to choose cycling as a regular mode of transport.
Unlocking Serbia’s district heating potential: The public energy services company model in focus
April 11, 2025
The Western Balkans is facing a pressing energy crisis, largely due to outdated district heating systems that waste vast amounts of energy. In Serbia alone, district heating networks serve over 700,0000 households, yet inefficiencies have led to energy losses of up to 12 per cent, resulting in higher costs and increased greenhouse gas emissions. Energy consumption per square metre is nearly triple that of western Europe, mainly due to poor insulation and ageing infrastructure. Rising energy prices and reliance on often imported fossil fuels make energy efficiency an economic necessity.
Outcome undisclosed: EIB Group Complaints Mechanism leaves Corridor Vc complainants in the dark
March 21, 2025
This case study summarises the circumstances of the complaints against the project, the conclusions of the EIB Complaints Mechanism, the outcomes and recommendations for the next review of the EIB Group Complaints Mechanism Policy.
Romania: Key Black Sea gas pipeline goes on trial
February 27, 2025
‘Gas hub’ is Europe’s buzzword du jour, and the Romanian government certainly has high ambitions. With shiny new pipelines and a massive drilling rig in the Black Sea, Bucharest is working hard to capitalise on its neighbours’ fossil gas addiction – and to hell with the EU’s climate commitments. Even due process has been little more than an afterthought. Until this week.
Countering shrinking space: How multilateral development banks can empower civil society in the Western Balkans, Caucasus and Central Asia
February 25, 2025
This report examines how multilateral development banks have failed to adequately protect civil society in the Caucasus, Western Balkans, and Central Asia.
Bihor County leads Romania’s geothermal heating revolution with EU support
January 27, 2025
Geothermal energy is becoming an increasingly popular way to heat homes and buildings across Europe. Efficient use of this renewable energy source not only significantly lowers heating costs compared to gas-based systems, but also reduces greenhouse gas emissions and improves urban air quality.
