Name and Location
Macedonian–Albania transmission line project.

Client
Macedonian Transmission System Operator (Mepso).

Project Description
The project proposes to develop a 400 kV overhead power transmission line across the south-western region of Macedonia, connecting to the Albanian border.

The route will pass from the Bitola 2 substation, in Macedonia, across the predominantly flat areas of the Pelagonija fields, across the northern slopes of the Baba mountain area, passing close to the northern border of the Pelister National Park, through the Prespa valley to the Struga fields area in the northern part of the Lake Ohrid region, to the edge of Jablanica mountain and then turning south to the link with the Albanian border.

The project will include about 100 km of 400 kV overhead power lines, as well as the upgrading of a current substation at Bitola, using a free transmission bay within a current substation.

A new 400 kV to 110 kV substation will also be required in the area to the north of Lake Ohrid. This will assist with the offtake of electricity into the regional 110 kV power network to allow for improved power supply to the local area in the south-west region from the transmission network of Macedonia.

Value
The project is expected to cost about €68-million.

The Macedonia portion of the investment is estimated at €43.5-million.

Duration
The interconnection is expected to be commissioned by the end of 2017.

Latest Developments
The project is currently at feasibility stage and detailed engineering design has not yet started. Therefore, the proposed routing of the transmission line is currently a corridor that is 500 m wide. At the detailed design stage, a preferential specific routing will be selected, as well as specific tower locations.

An updated nontechnical summary will be provided when the final proposed actual line routing in the corridor has been completed. There will be proactive consultation with any affected parties as part of the land acquisition and compensation framework arrangements.

Key Contracts and Suppliers
None stated.

On Budget and on Time?
Not stated.

Contact Details for Project Information
Mepso, tel +389 2 314 9600, fax +389 2 3111 160 or email info@mepso.com.mk.