The total installed generation capacity in Kosovo is approximately 1,500 MW, divided into: 800 MW in Kosovo A, the oldest and least efficient station; 680 MW across two units at the Kosovo B lignite fuelled generation plant; and a further 35 MW of hydroelectric generation. However, long term unit outages at Kosovo A and reduced availability and performance of units at Kosovo A & B mean that net available thermal capacity is around 800MW across both plants.
As result of this reduced availability, peak demand frequently exceeds the available capacity, requiring KEK to import energy from neighboring countries (12.6% in 2008) and/or engage in load-shedding. For example, in February 2008, peak demand in Kosovo reached 967 MW.
The maintenance of Kosovo B has improved in recent years and many new components have been installed to sustain operation and improve performance, but only to a limited extent to improve the environmental performance. Between 1999 and 2006, the European Agency for Reconstruction (“EAR”) spent €175 million on the refurbishment of the plant.
Since September 2007, active power of both units of Kosovo B has been reduced due to damage of the low pressure rotors of both steam turbines. For this reason, currently, the maximum net available power of unit B1 is 240MW, while that of the unit B2 is 280MW. This situation is expected to last until 2010 when new rotors will be installed and the capacity of two units will be increased.
The maintenance of Kosovo B has improved in recent years and many new components have been installed to sustain operation and improve performance, but only to a limited extent to improve the environmental performance. Between 1999 and 2006, the European Agency for Reconstruction (“EAR”) spent €175 million on the refurbishment of the plant.
Since September 2007, active power of both units of Kosovo B has been reduced due to damage of the low pressure rotors of both steam turbines. For this reason, currently, the maximum net available power of unit B1 is 240MW, while that of the unit B2 is 280MW. This situation is expected to last until 2010 when new rotors will be installed and the capacity of two units will be increased.
It should be noted that though Kosovo’s lignite has low sulfur content and a relatively good concentration of lime (calcium oxide) for absorbing sulfur during the combustion process, current emissions from both units at Kosovo B are higher than those set out in the EU Large Combustion Plant Directive 2001/80/EU.
Based on “Pre-feasibility study for pollution mitigation measures at TPP Kosova B (EAR, 2006)” recommendations are to increase performance and environmental mitigation measures to fully comply with EC Aquis on Environment.
