Energy & Renewables: Alcazar Energy Partners has reached financial close on North Macedonia’s 131.25MW Štip wind farm, a €180m project backed by over €115m in senior debt from the EBRD, IFC and Erste, with Sparkasse Bank AD Skopje providing a local VAT facility; construction is set to ramp up across turbines in Karbinci, Radoviš and Štip, with full operation expected by 2028. Power Storage Buildout: North Macedonia has started building battery energy storage systems (BESS) in 2026, including standalone units and batteries integrated into existing solar plants, aiming to improve PV economics and shorten payback periods. EU Integration & Diplomacy: Foreign Affairs Minister Timcho Mucunski says North Macedonia is ready to share its EU accession experience with Ukraine, while warning against intimidation and unilateral concessions during the process. Transport & Logistics: Regional hauliers plan EU border blockades from 14 September over the Schengen stay-limit for Western Balkan professional drivers, citing detentions and disruptions to supply chains. Hospitality & Retail Expansion: TGI Fridays signs a development deal with Devolli Group for its first expansion into Kosovo, Albania and North Macedonia, targeting 10 restaurants across the three markets. Public Spending Watch: Independence Day celebrations in North Macedonia cost €5.5m total, with nearly €4.9m funded via the State Lottery.