The research finds that: The Western Balkan region is one of the most affected when it comes to sensitivity to the energy crisis. This sensitivity results from the lack of diversification of energy sources, heavy dependence on polluting and outdated coal-fired power plants and as a result of high energy imports which, due to the energy crisis, have reached record levels. The "Day Ahead" energy price on the Hungarian Stock Exchange - HUPX reached over 1047.1 EUR/MWh in August. Taking into account these trends, prices may increase even more this winter, making the economic and social situation of the citizens of the Western Balkans even more difficult and raising inflation further.

Based on the research, Kosovo and North Macedonia, have turned out to be among the countries most affected by the energy crisis. Besfort Kosova, Researcher from the Balkan Green Foundation emphasized that: "The number of measures reflects the depth of the energy crisis affecting a country, and not necessarily how proactive a country is in adopting new measures to improve the situation. There is a clear correlation between the measures taken by the countries of the Western Balkans and the import".

Some of the recommendations that emerge from this publication include: the advancement of schemes of a social nature to support poor energy consumers and prevent further economic damage to certain businesses and industries; strengthening regional cooperation between the six countries of the Western Balkans regarding the energy crisis and creating a better interconnectivity system; increasing the transparency and quality of information related to the energy crisis; as well as the institutional commitment to the Green Agenda and the just energy transition and the removal of bureaucracy for investments in renewable energy sources, as the most sustainable form of decarbonization.

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