Core area “Climate and energy, just transition” Climate-friendly infrastructure combined with sustainable mobility

    Albania is one of the European countries most at risk from climate-related hazards such as flooding and landslides. Outdated infrastructure makes the country even more vulnerable. Droughts and climate volatility pose huge threats to the country’s energy system. German and European programmes are supporting climate action and sustainable infrastructure in order to strengthen Albania’s resilience.

    Construction of high-voltage transmission line near Shkoder, Albania

    Construction of high-voltage transmission line near Shkoder, Albania

    Albania is one of the countries in Europe most vulnerable to environmental and climate risks, with natural disasters such as floods, forest fires and landslides affecting almost all municipalities. At the same time, the country suffers from significant shortcomings when it comes to waste management and the implementation of environmental standards. Issues include substandard landfill sites, low recycling rates and infrastructure that has not kept pace with economic growth.

    In addition, Albania suffers from a major technical and infrastructure vulnerability: around 95 per cent of the country’s electricity comes from hydropower, which makes its energy system highly sensitive to climate volatility. What is more, many of Albania’s infrastructure systems located along the coast or in river deltas, such as its transport and sewage networks, are threatened by flooding, coastal erosion and pollution from contaminated sites. Without targeted investment, climate-related risks could cause Albania long-term economic damage – up to seven per cent of GDP, according to conservative estimates.

    Goals for the sector

    German and European initiatives in Albania aim to combine environmental and climate protection, economic development and social inclusion. They support the development of modern, environmentally friendly infrastructure – from waste management and energy supply systems to sustainable mobility – and are strengthening the country’s ability to adapt to climate change. These activities also contribute to the regional climate partnership with the Western Balkans, which is part of the Berlin Process.

    Project examples

    • Germany is supporting Tirana’s efforts to establish renewable, climate-friendly mobility. Investments in a rapid electric bus system, the expansion of footpaths and cycle paths, the modernisation of local public transport and digital solutions all aim to reduce air pollution and carbon emissions while promoting safe, accessible mobility.

    • Germany also supports municipalities in Albania in introducing waste management systems that are environmentally sound and economically viable. In the Vlora region, for example, modern waste disposal and composting facilities are being built, old landfill sites are being closed, and there are awareness campaigns on the importance of recycling. This is improving local people’s living conditions and aligning Albania more closely with EU environmental standards.

    • A programme supporting the energy-efficient refurbishment of halls of residence at the University of Tirana is improving the energy efficiency of public buildings. It is also strengthening the social infrastructure for students and contributing to sustainable economic development in Albania.

    • The Electricity Distribution I investment programme is modernising Albania’s electricity grid, improving security of supply and energy efficiency, and supporting the transition to a climate-friendly, low-emission energy supply.

    • A project on climate adaptation in the agricultural and urban transport sectors is working to develop a sound basis for decision-making and strategies to improve the process of planning relevant measures. It focuses on pilot projects in the agricultural and transport sectors and facilitates knowledge sharing.

    • Germany is working with the Green Climate Fund and the Swiss and Albanian governments to strengthen Albania’s climate resilience through the national climate programme. Early warning systems, climate information services and ecosystem-based measures are being put in place in vulnerable regions to prepare communities to deal with climate risks and to promote climate-resilient investments.

    • Through its funding for the Prespa Ohrid Nature Trust, Germany is strengthening the protection of valuable ecosystems in the tri-border area between Albania, North Macedonia and Greece by improving management structures in protected areas and supporting the sustainable use of natural resources.

    • A programme aimed at reducing marine litter in the Adriatic Sea promotes collaboration between public, private and civil society actors with a view to reducing plastic pollution in the Mediterranean.

    • The Open Regional Fund for South-East Europe supports the region in planning and implementing climate change mitigation and decarbonisation measures. Under the EU’s EU4Energy Transition programme, municipalities can receive support for sustainable climate and energy plans.

    • In addition, Germany is incorporating the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans into high-level dialogue formats, with the aim of promoting a gender-just socio-ecological transformation and strengthening regional cooperation.

    Progress at the local level

    • The new 400-kilovolt transmission line between Albania and North Macedonia will contribute significantly to reducing carbon emissions in future. Calculations indicate that it will save about 50,000 tonnes of emissions per year.

    • As a result of Technical Cooperation activities, Tirana now has a reliable public transport timetable and a tight network of signposted bus stops. Since these basic structures were introduced, the use of public transport has risen significantly.

    • Many cities are benefiting from improved waste management. Regular waste collection, local drop-off points and waste sorting facilities are making life easier for residents. With German support, local authorities are also preparing to introduce structured recycling systems.

    As at: 20/05/2026