Macedonia's Chebren and Galishte project to boost energy, water and tourism

Prime Minister Christian Miccroski said the Chebren and Galishte multipurpose project is a strategic priority for Macedonia, not only for electricity generation but also for water supply, irrigation and tourism development. He noted that in April domestic electricity production covered 88.8 % of total consumption, bringing the country closer to full self‑sufficiency and a future electricity exporter.

Two financing models are being explored: funding from international financial institutions with a grace period during construction, and a public‑private partnership. Discussions are underway with the World Bank, European Investment Bank and other large lenders. The project is expected to add roughly €1 billion to GDP and generate up to €500 million in revenues.

The government also highlighted related infrastructure upgrades, including the completion of the gas interconnector with Greece next year, a tender for a gas link with Serbia, a product pipeline from Thessaloniki, and the revitalisation of several gas pipelines (Štip‑Veles, to Kičevo) and a water conduit with Albania, positioning the region as a Balkan crossroads.