In a small village near Kumanovo, North Macedonia, fields of yellow flowers now share space with rows of gleaming solar panels, catching the sunlight. Among these fields stand Snezhana and Dobrin Petrushevski, a smiling middle-aged couple, proudly pointing to where new photovoltaic panels will soon rise.
“This is where the new panels will come up, just like those over there,” says Dobrin, pointing to their solar farm, Eco Energy. While the farm is registered under Snezhana’s name, Dobrin helps manage their ambitious venture.
The couple’s dream of creating a sustainable business became a reality thanks to the Green Financing Facility (GFF), a program launched by the Joint SDG Fund. Through Sparkasse Bank, Snezhana received a loan that includes a unique performance-based incentive: a 10% cash refund once the project is completed and verified.
The GFF doesn’t just provide financing—it also offers expert advice. Consultants specializing in clean energy and finance helped the Petrushevskis select the most efficient equipment for their solar farm. “The guidance gave us the confidence to make the right choices for our investment,” says Dobrin.
Building for the Future
The decision to invest in renewable energy wasn’t just about cutting costs. For the Petrushevski family, it’s deeply personal. “We are proud to do something good for the environment and to reduce our dependency on foreign energy sources,” says Snezhana.
Their solar farm represents more than energy savings—it’s a legacy for their children and grandchildren. “We want to build something sustainable, so our sons and their children can continue this work, contributing to a better future for themselves and the climate,” Dobrin explains.
A Ripple Effect of Change
The couple’s success has inspired others in their community. Encouraged by their story, Dobrin shares how neighbours are beginning to invest in solar energy, too. “I’ve become a sort of mentor, helping others understand the potential of renewable energy—not just for their businesses but for reducing pollution and protecting the environment.”
In a country long burdened by air pollution, initiatives like the GFF are helping turn the tide. By combining innovative financing with technical expertise, the program is enabling small businesses to lead the way in North Macedonia’s energy transition.
For Snezhana and Dobrin, the solar panels in their field are more than a source of energy. They’re a symbol of hope and determination—a promise to future generations.
“We’re not just building a business,” says Snezhana, “We’re building a future.”
Note:
All joint programmes of the Joint SDG Fund are led by UN Resident Coordinators and implemented by the agencies, funds and programmes of the United Nations development system. With sincere appreciation for the contributions from the European Union and Governments of Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Monaco, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and our private sector funding partners, for a transformative movement towards achieving the SDGs by 2030.