Unit A5 of TC Kosova A returns to operation, KEK has an explanation for the black smoke

Unit A5 of Kosovo A power plant returns to operation, KEK has an explanation for the black smoke

KEK has informed that Unit A5 of TPP Kosovo A has returned to operation.

The announcement states that the unit’s start-up process began this morning, after all planned interventions were successfully completed, on time and with high technical quality.

Several videos were published today showing black smoke coming out of the power plant, for which KEK has an explanation.

According to this energy corporation, starting up any generating unit, including unit A5 this morning, is a complex and technically necessary process, which usually takes 3–4 hours.

Below is the full statement from KEK:

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The Kosovo Energy Corporation (KEK sh.a.) informs the public that today, on 23.06.2025, unit A5 of the Kosovo A Power Plant was synchronized with the power grid at around 10:03 am, marking a successful return to operation, after carrying out a series of necessary technical interventions and repairs.

The unit’s start-up process began this morning, after all planned interventions were successfully completed, on time and with high technical quality.

The works carried out include:

• Remediation of leaks in reheaters (completed) ton Friday);

• Repair of leaks in the economizer (water heater) and boiler screens (completed on Sunday);

• Pressure pump cleaning of hydrogen coolers;

• Cleaning the chambers at the condenser inlet;

• Maintenance work on MRRK system equipment;

• Cleaning the gaps around the boiler from foreign materials foreigners – to increase safety and operational efficiency.

This return to operation once again confirms the capacity and readiness of our technical teams, which, with professional dedication and continuous coordination, ensured a successful and sustainable process of restoring the A5 unit.

The Chief Executive Officer of KEK sh.a., Mr. Gramos Hashani, thanked all employees for their commitment and dedication:

“This case also shows the responsibility borne by KEK employees, who, even on their days off, spare neither effort nor professionalism to support the country’s energy system. I thank you for your commitment and I am proud of the work you have done!”

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Attention to public opinion

Considering the interest and sensitivity of citizens, especially residents living in the vicinity of the Kosovo A Power Plant, KEK jsc would like to provide this technical clarification:

As we have previously announced, the start-up of any production unit, including unit A5 this morning, is a complex and technically necessary process, which usually takes 3–4 hours.

During this initial phase, due to the technological nature of the combustion – which is initially done with oil, and then, when the necessary temperature is reached, with lignite – there may be a temporary increase in emissions from the stacks.

This is a common and technologically unavoidable phenomenon in all power plants of this type, both domestically and abroad.

As evidenced by the photos from 11:07 (attached), the unit is now stabilized and the smoke has disappeared, confirming the successful completion of the start-up phase.

KEK sh.a. sympathizes with the citizens of the municipality and especially with those located near the operational area. We assure citizens that the start-up processes are carried out with increased technical care, under constant supervision, and are necessary for:

– guaranteeing a stable supply of electricity, and 

– maintenance and technical safety of electrical equipment.

Thank you for your understanding and continued cooperation!

KEK sh.a. remains committed to the responsible management of production capacities, through careful maintenance, technical planning and continuous professional engagement, to guarantee a stable supply of electricity for the country.

All the best,

Department for Relations

with the Public and Communities

ENERGY CORPORATION KOSOVO