Balkan and Swiss regional updates on energy, labor, and law enforcement

Various regional developments across the Balkans and Switzerland highlight shifts in energy, labor, and law enforcement.

In North Macedonia, electricity production in June 2026 fell by 13.2% compared to the previous year, totaling 408,045 MWh. While thermal power remained the largest source, its output dropped by 23.6%, partially offset by a 36% increase in hydroelectric production. Solar and wind energy also saw declines.

In Albania, renewable energy is gaining ground, with solar and wind accounting for approximately 19% of total electricity production. Data shows a 55.6% year-on-year increase in renewable output. Meanwhile, the Albanian Electricity Corporation (KESH) faced scrutiny over a 5.29 million euro non-competitive tender for fuel services for floating thermal power plants in Vlora.

Law enforcement activity has been high in the region. North Macedonia reported 1,621 traffic violations over three days, resulting in 43 arrests. Additionally, police intercepted two foreign drivers from Serbia and the Netherlands for extreme speeding on the A-1 highway. In another instance, nearly 1,000 violations involving electric scooters were recorded in North Macedonia over two months.

In Switzerland, employment reached a record high in the second quarter of 2026, rising 2.0% year-on-year to 5.698 million people, driven largely by the service sector. Additionally, the number of job vacancies rose to 98,700.