On 24 February 2026, the EIT Community Hub Albania hosted “Harvesting Innovation with InnoEnergy” at the Tirana Marriott. The high-level event was dedicated to unlocking opportunities under InnoEnergy and the wider European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) for Albania’s energy and industrial ecosystem.
The event opened with introductory insights from Dr. Françeska Korançe, EIT Community Officer at EIT Community Hub Albania; Ms. Elona Xhaferri, Advisor at EU4Innovation, GIZ Albania; and Mr. Sokol Spahiu, Cabinet Advisor at the Electricity Distribution Operator (OSHEE).
Mr. Piotr Pawelec, Regional Innovation Scheme and Cross-KIC Manager at InnoEnergy, then presented an overview of the innovation funding, business creation, skills development, and industrial scale-up opportunities available to Albanian stakeholders. Participants gained practical insights into how to access European instruments, build cross-border partnerships, and position their projects within priority areas such as renewable energy, energy storage, smart electric grids, mobility, industrial decarbonisation, energy efficiency, and circular economy solutions.
Energy transition and clean energy partnerships
A panel discussion on “Energy Transition and Industrial Competitiveness in Albania: Challenges and Opportunities”, moderated by Mr. Josh Miekley, Founder of Leadership Forum, brought together representatives from the Transmission System Operator, OSHEE, the Energy Regulatory Authority, Novamat, PPC Albania, and Enternovu. Speakers addressed grid modernisation, regulatory framework needs, industrial competitiveness, investment readiness, and the strategic steps required for Albania’s clean energy transition.
A dedicated session on “Strategic Partnerships for Sustainable Buildings and Clean Energy Deployment” followed, with Ms. Stela Dhami, President of Green Building Council Albania, joined by representatives of Aureum Estates and Development Ltd, the Agency for Energy Efficiency, and ProCredit Bank Albania. The discussion focused on sustainable construction, green finance, certification standards, and scaling clean energy solutions through strategic partnerships. The day concluded with a networking lunch.
The event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, financial institutions, academia, and innovators, strengthening collaboration and reinforcing Albania’s role within Europe’s clean energy innovation ecosystem.
How can you get involved?
If you’re interested in delving deeper into the EIT’s offerings and discovering how it can support you on your innovation or entrepreneurial journey, please reach out to the EIT Community RIS HUB Albania: albania@eitcommunity.eu or follow the LinkedIn page: EIT Community Hub Albania and EIT Community RIS Hub in Albania country page.
