Ambassador Jacobson's Speech at the inauguration of a new electrostatic precipitator at the KEK Energy Plant

September 5, 2012

Ambassador Jacobson joined by Ministers Besim Becaj and Dardan Gashi and KEK Managing Director Artan Gjukaj, at the inauguration of a new electrostatic precipitator at the KEK Energy Plant.

I ‘m honored to be here with you on this very important occasion.  The development of the energy sector is among the highest priorities of the United States’ assistance programs here in Kosovo. Because Energy is the lifeblood of any country.  And electric energy is getting increasingly expensive and difficult to obtain. 

This is a particular challenge here in Kosovo.  Yet in light of its location and low-cost sources of lignite, Kosovo also possesses an immense potential for growth in this area.

The U.S. Government, through USAID, is supporting development of the energy sector in Kosovo, in partnership with the government and with other donors.  Together, we want to ensure Kosovo has a more reliable and environmentally responsible energy supply.

Today’s inauguration proves that we are moving in the right direction.  Kosovo is now attracting private sector investments and know-how -- both essential to realize the sector’s full potential.  

Providing electricity supply that meets European standards, remains a daunting task for Kosovo.  And success will require joint commitment to this common goal by both the Government and all of Kosovo’s citizens.

It will also demand difficult choices and compromise.  It’s a real challenge that Kosovo can overcome, but only with the good-faith participation and support of all the stakeholders.

The success that we are celebrating at A5 and the plans we have heard about for A3 and A4 reflect a sincere commitment to more environmentally-sensitive and sustainable power generation.  And all these efforts are important steps in the right direction.

More encouraging still, is that these investments were made possible by KEK’s own revenues.  More responsible financial and operational management has helped KEK secure the investment capital necessary to make these improvements.  I commend KEK’s commitment to providing reliable service, while at the same time advancing more environmentally-friendly power generation methods.  A more reliable and environmentally sound electricity supply in Kosovo will be achieved only if the sector is operated and developed on a sound commercial basis.  This is the only way forward for the public and Kosovo.

Thank you for allowing me to join you today.  The United States is a proud partner for Kosovo and applauds its successes here.  And you can rest assured of the continued support of the people of the United States as Kosovo continues to develop a sustainable and environmentally-sound energy sector.