Power Utility CEZ Stripped of Grid Operator's License in Albania

Albanian energy regulator ERE has revoked the license of the local unit of Czech power utility CEZ to operate the country's national grid.

According to reports of international media, as cited by Sega daily, CEZ Shperndarje was stripped of its national grid operator's license after a dispute with the government which led to disruptions in electricity and water supplies.

Albania's energy watchdog declared Monday that the government would regain control over power distribution after the withdrawal of the license of local subsidiary of the Czech utility CEZ.

The power utility argued that it had been forced to cut off services over unpaid bills, while the Albanian government insisted that the company had neglected its commitments for infrastructure investment.

The Czech company has vowed to seek compensation for the license withdrawal, claiming that the step was illegal.

Czech power utility CEZ set foot on the Bulgarian electricity distribution market in 2004 and operates in the country through its subsidiaries CEZ Elektro Bulgaria AD, CEZ Razpredelenie Bulgaria AD, CEZ Trade Bulgaria EAD, CEZ Laboratories Bulgaria OOD and thermal power plant Varna EAD.