The Energy Transition in the Western Balkans Countries: A Path to Sustainability

Abstract

The aim of the paper is to review the achievements and possibilities of the energy transition in five countries of the Western Balkans (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia). According to macroeconomic indicators, the Western Balkans lag behind the members of the European Union. The transformation of the energy sector would accelerate the economic growth of the observed countries and provide the basis for achievement of Sustainable Development Goals. The greatest potential is present in renewable energy sources. In terms of the share of energy production from renewable sources, Albania and Montenegro are above the average values for the EU. According to the energy productivity indicator, all five observed countries are only at one third of the average values for the EU. Significantly worse achievements are an indicator of energy intensity, where the Western Balkans significantly lags behind the EU. There are also opportunities for significant improvements in energy efficiency. Initiatives such as the Energy Community and the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans provide opportunities for the development of the energy sector through regional cooperation and cooperation with the EU. The countries of the Western Balkans have also adopted national strategies for sustainable and clean energy.