The Macedonian Government has decided to unilaterally terminate the concession agreement for the use of water for the construction of a small hydroelectric power plant on the Blateshnica River, thus putting an end to the long-standing process related to this project.
This was preceded by an official letter sent in the second half of February, informing the investor that the Construction Permit, in accordance with Article 68 paragraph (1) of the Law on Construction, ceased to be valid on August 13, 2025. The letter stated that any possible construction activity after the expiration of the validity of the permit will be considered illegal construction and will constitute grounds for initiating appropriate legal proceedings.
The Macedonian Ministry of Energy, Mining and Mineral Resources was also notified of this circumstance, with a request that it be taken into account when deciding on a possible extension of the concession agreement.
Monday’s government decision to unilaterally terminate the concession completes another significant step in the protection of the public interest and natural values in the Blateshnica area. The decision follows months of reactions and protests by the residents of the village of Blatec, who in February this year organized blockades, 24-hour vigils and protests against the construction of the small hydropower plant, assessing that the project poses a threat to the water supply and the environment.
