A key step in the implementation of the €136 million EU-supported project was taken with the announcement of the opening of bids for construction of North Macedonia’s largest environmental project – the Skopje wastewater plant.

The Skopje wastewater treatment plant is one of the 21 flagship projects selected in February for EU financing in 2022 through the Western Balkans Investment Framework. The investment package is a step further in the implementation of the Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans 2021-2027. The Skopje wastewater plant is one of the environmental projects selected for financing under Flagship 7 – Waste and Wastewater Management.

The EU is financing this project with a €70 million investment grant, complementing a €35 million European Investment Bank loan, €30 million European Bank for Reconstruction and Development loan and funds from bilateral donors. As Skopje’s wastewater is currently discharged into the Vardar River without treatment, the project is expected to have significant environmental and public health benefits for the inhabitants of Skopje. It will also contribute to North Macedonia’s compliance with relevant EU environmental and water laws and standards.