Kyriakos Mitsotakis faces questions over Western Macedonia energy transition

Following a visit to Western Macedonia on August 29, 2026, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis faced several critical questions regarding the region's economic and energy transition.

Key issues raised include the phase-out of lignite and the contradictions regarding energy production, specifically noting that some Central European countries continue to utilize coal-fired units. There are also inquiries regarding whether modern, anti-pollution lignite power plants should be kept in reserve to ensure system stability and support district heating.

Additional concerns involve the impact of previous legislative decisions on the University of Western Macedonia and the regional reliance on highways for development. Critics pointed to the lack of maritime ports and the decline of the railway system since 2010 as significant barriers to regional competitiveness and the efficient transport of goods.