The Ministry of Economy in Kosovo has selected the consortium led by Switzerland-based construction firm Orllati (VD) SA as the winner of the country's maiden solar energy auction for 100 MW capacity.
Orllati cleared the round beating other 5 shortlisted consortia led by Turkey's Çalik-Limak, Turkey's Guris Insaat Muhendishik, and individual bidders, namely Germany's Notus Energy's local branch, France's Akuo Energy and Egypt's Elsewedy Electric (see Kosovo Moves Ahead Of 1st Of 950 MW RE Procurement Plan).
The winner was selected on the basis of the lowest offered bid. Comprising local and international partners, the Orllati consortium was selected for offering the winning tariff of €48.88 ($52.71)/MWh, stated the ministry. This price was determined after achieving a closing price of €57.00 ($61.48)/MWh with 43 bids in the 1st round, followed by €49.89 ($53.8)/MWh in the 2nd round with 35 bids, and the 3rd round with 20 bids offering a closing price of €48.88/MWh.
The last round determined Orllati as the winner with the closing price of €48.88/MWh. This tender round was backed by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
Calling it a successful auction, Kosovo's Prime Minister Albin Kurti said this project will help the country reduce its dependence on imports for electricity. The winning consortium plans to invest over €70 million ($75.5 million) to execute the project.
The Economy Ministry sees the 100 MW solar power plant in the Municipality of Rahovec creating jobs and leading to skill development of the locals.
Kosovo plans to follow up this 100 MW solar auction with a series of renewable energy tenders to award a combined 950 MW capacity over the next 2 years (see Kosovo Moves Ahead On 1st Of 950 MW RE Procurement Plan).