Renewable energy in the Western Balkans: Policies, developments and perspectives

The development of the energy sector is one of the most critical issues in the Western Balkans region. Due to the region's high renewable energy sources (RES) potential, renewable energy is considered a promising method for building sustainable and resilient energy systems that offer attested and affordable energy to fuel economic development of a region, while reducing import dependence. The aim of this research is to discuss current trends in renewable energies in Western Balkans countries, and to analyze the policies promoting and barriers to RES development, as well as to provide recommendations for the future growth of renewable energy in this region. Even though these countries have defined targets for RES in their energy policies, there are gaps between the targets and actual results, as national government face various energy challenges. The main barriers common to all countries are regulatory uncertainty and low transparency levels, a slow and unpredictable planning process and limited regional market integration. Thus, it is necessary to undertake a more active approach through targeted renewable energy policies. (C) 2021 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.