Decreasing of the water loses in Kočani, North Macedonia

The municipality of Kočani suffers from significant water losses. Losses in the water supply system are as high as 77% due to a worn-out and outdated water supply network, illegal connections, the length of the water supply network, old water meters and inaccurate metering. Although the local utility company has been active in rehabilitating the water supply system, new equipment was purchased and a SCADA system for water loss control was installed a few years ago, but the desired results were not achieved due to inadequate training of staff in the use of the equipment. The equipment has also failed to detect illegal connections as it is not effective against the non-metallic materials that make up illegal connections. The water supply system is also a large consumer of electricity, which was reflected in the rising cost of electricity.

The project in the municipality of Kočani falls under the priority area of Slovenian international development cooperation (combating climate change with an emphasis on sustainable management of natural and energy resources). The priority geographical areas for international development cooperation are the Western Balkans, the European Neighbourhood and Sub-Saharan Africa, with a focus on the least developed countries.

The first phase of the project will prepare measures to reduce water losses, such as the purchase of necessary equipment, the purchase and installation of new water meters, the detection of water leaks, the detection of illegal connections and inaccurate measurements, and the repair of these defects.

The second phase will involve the construction of two photovoltaic power plants, one of 120 kW and the other of 440 kW, which will produce 809,500 kWh per year. The project includes training and six-month expert support for staff in the use of equipment and loss detection, promotion of the importance of efficient use of drinking water and renewable energy sources, and advice to the community on water conservation.

Project results:

• Measures taken to reduce water losses
• Equipment purchased and installed
• Photovoltaic power plants built
• Training and promotional events conducted

Project objectives:

• Reduce water losses
• Generate electricity from a renewable energy source
• Reduce carbon footprint
• Reduce operating costs