Minister for Digital Transformation, Stefan Andonovski, addressed the session “Digitalization of Energy Systems – Accelerating Action through Coordination and Innovation” within the framework of the 14th International Forum on Energy for Sustainable Development, held in Skopje.
In his address, the Minister emphasized the need for joint action and coordinated efforts in the process of digital and energy transformation.
“We all achieve more when we work together. Our differences are important, but our shared humanity is even more important,” quoted Minister Andonovski, emphasizing that digitalization can accelerate the joint mission for a sustainable energy future.
Andonovski stated that digitalisation is the new energy of governance, creating efficiency, transparency, and resilience across all sectors, particularly in energy.
“Digitalization is the bridge that connects the growing energy demand and the need for decarbonization. It enables every watt, every kilowatt-hour and every political decision to be smarter, cleaner and more inclusive,” the minister said.
He emphasized that digitalization is not just a technical process, but a new way of thinking and managing – connecting data, institutions and citizens for the benefit of sustainable policies and green energy.
Minister Andonovski presented the progress that Macedonia has made in digital transformation through three key systems:
• The National Interoperability Platform, which connects 74 institutions and enables over 2 million secure transactions per month – an increase of 160% compared to last year;
• The National e-Services Portal – uslugi.gov.mk, through which citizens receive public services online;
• The Electronic Document Management System (eDMS), which has replaced paper-based operations in over 80 institutions.
“These systems are not just administrative tools; they are the foundation of efficient governance, data integrity and transparency,” the minister emphasized.
Andonovski informed that the Ministry of Digital Transformation, in cooperation with the Ministry of Energy, Mining and Mineral Resources, has already digitized more than 20 public services for citizens and businesses, as well as introducing integrated document systems and financial planning.
The minister also presented the new generation of digital initiatives in energy sector:
• The National Centre for Artificial Intelligence – “Vezilka”, which develops AI models for predictive maintenance of energy infrastructure and demand forecasting;
• The European Digital Innovation Hub – INNOFEIT, which connects academia and the private sector and provides access to laboratories and training in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and automation.
These initiatives are part of the SMART/MK 2030 strategy, a vision for a digital, green and human-cantered transformation, fully aligned with the European Digital Decade.
Andonovski stressed that the digital transformation of energy systems requires regional coordination and a common approach.
“The challenges are far too complex for any country to solve alone. That is why regional cooperation is our success multiplier,” he said.
In conclusion, the minister called for a shift “from goals to action” and the building of sustainable digital ecosystems: “If we succeed, we will not only decarbonize the energy grid – we will humanize the transition, making it more efficient, more transparent and righteous.”