TPP Bitola a prerequisite for optimal supply of the Republic of Macedonia with electricity

Mining Power Company - REK Bitola is the biggest electricity production facility in the Republic of Macedonia. The plant covers 50% of the total electricity demand of the country, as well as biggest part of coal (lignite) demand of industrial barrelhouses and households. The thesis recognizes the possibility of finding an optimal solution for extending the operating life of REK Bitola in the period until 2030 and afterwards, by fulfilling the obligations imposed by European directives, especially directives for large thermal power facilities, as well as expected commitments of Macedonia in terms of greenhouse gas emissions and the expected cost of allowable emissions of greenhouse gases. Also, the possibility for building of new blocks with higher energy efficiency, opening of new mines in Zivojno and Mariovo, building of a new modern plant in Bitola and/or Mariovo by utilizing the available human potential in REK Bitola, is also considered. Possibilities of REK Bitola for heating of the city of Bitola and Bitola region, and the ability to integrate solar energy in the process of electricity production in REK Bitola, are also discussed in this paper. (author)