Second Environmental Performance Review of Albania

Chapter 9: Energy and environment133Electricity losses through transmission anddistribution, both technical and non-technical (illegalconnections), is a serious problem. For example, in2008 the total losses were 35 per cent of theelectricity supply (generation and importation).KESH estimates technical losses caused by obsoletetransmission lines and electricity distributionnetworks to be 20-25 per cent and commercial losses10-15 per cent. Reduction of electricity technical andcommercial losses could reduce import and/orgeneration volumes and would also improve KESH’sfinancial indicators.Recommendation 9.5:The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Energy incooperation with the relevant stakeholders shouldensure:(a) Implementing a programme to decreasetransmission and distribution losses;(b) Arranging for strict control of consumers,including increased collection of payments,reduction of illegal connections and theinstallation of electicity meters.