UNMIK/PR/948
PRISTINA – Underlining his responsibility under SC Resolution 1244 “to ensure conditions for a normal life for all inhabitants of Kosovo”, and Chapter 8 of the Constitutional Framework, SRSG Michael Steiner today authorised appropriation of 17.3 million euros to meet KEK’s need for emergency repairs.
This will be taken from last year’s surplus of the Kosovo Consolidated Budget.
This was part of the emergency measures announced by Mr. Steiner today to address the electricity situation in Kosovo.
On a more immediate note, SRSG Michael Steiner would provide money from his contingency fund to import electricity to cover the electricity needs for the next few months.
“My aim is to have a loadshedding schedule of 4 hours on and 2 hours off or even 5 hours on 1 hour off – from today,” said SRSG Michael Steiner.
“But we can’t only think about the present situation and summer,” said SRSG Michael Steiner. “We must also think of next autumn and winter. Without immediate repairs to the Kosovo B unit and West Mirash coal mine, Kosovo will produce virtually zero electricity next winter. Therefore KEK requires immediate funding.”
“And in order to ensure electricity next winter, contracts must be signed now to make the necessary repairs in time.”
“KEK’s urgent investment needs were discussed in the EFC on 27 March and the government has been consulted about this. UNMIK is ready to cooperate with the Government on drastic reforms to improve the unsatisfactory collection of payments. I have spoken this morning to Prime Minister Rexhepi and informed him about all the steps.”
“We checked and reduced to absolute minimum KEK’s needs for emergency repairs. This was 17.3 million Euros.”
“Kosovo’s power plants are like an old Zastava that are are 20 to 40 years old with no investment,” said SRSG Michael Steiner. “Last year it was also struck by lightening and suffered land slides in the Mirash coal mine.”
“This, combined with the fact that a lot of people have not paid their bills, including Kosovo institutions which owe KEK 13 million Euros, has created a difficult situation. People are fed up and we are fed up.”
The SRSG concluded by saying, “I’ve now done my part but people must contribute by saving energy and by paying their bills. If everyone pays their bills, KEK can provide full electricity in the future without relying on subsidies from your taxes.”