Energo: Western Balkans power sector risks “complete meltdown”, warns think-tank

The power sector in the Western Balkans is on the brink of collapse, a report from the Centre for European Policy Studies (CEPS) has warned, citing outdated infrastructure and environmental concerns as key factors contributing to the crisis.

"The most acute and imminent risk in that region is the complete meltdown of the power sector," said a CEPS policy brief. 

The think-tank further warns that a failure by the West to step in could force governments in the region to look to Russia or China to upgrade its energy infrastructure. 

The policy brief pointed out that as of 2024 many lignite power plants in the region are non-compliant with the EU Large Combustion Plant Directive, which regulates emissions, including sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and dust. This non-compliance not only poses environmental risks but also threatens energy security and economic stability in the region.