Connexion 
Synergy effect from donor cooperation - Luxembourg and Swiss investments extending the water supply network in Skenderaj
Project KSV/018 is actively involved in the rehabilitation of the water supply networks in Northern Kosovo. Two implementation stages were foreseen. The first stage was financed entirely from Luxembourg funds, while the second stage used a co-financing investment structure, including financial contributions of three municipalities (Mitrovica South, Vushtrri and Skenderaj). The first stage has been finalised successfully, with the second stage of implementation currently in progress.
During implementation of works contracts, Project KSV/018 liaised not only with the national counterpart, the Mitrovica Regional Water Company (MRWC) and the participating municipalities (as co-financing partners), but also with other donors that implement projects in the Water Sector in Kosovo. An example of multiple donors' coordination efforts is evident with contracts implemented in the municipality of Skenderaj. In the early stages of the design of KSV/018 works contracts in Skenderaj, consideration was given to other projects' investments in the region, in particular the “Rural Water and Sanitation Support Programme Kosovo Phase 5” financed both by Switzerland and the local Government. In coordination with the Swiss implementation partners, Dorsch and CDI, Project KSV/018 agreed to modify their initial design to accommodate an increase in the quantity of water being delivered to Skenderaj municipality. The synergy of coordinating donors’ activities has significantly benefited the expansion of the water supply network around Skenderaj, covering an additional 12 villages previously not connected to the MRWC supply network.
It was agreed that the investments would be divided: the Swiss Project would implement the construction of a new water storage reservoir, together with the needed transmission pipeline, whereas Project KSV/018 would invest in the increase of the throughput of water being supplied to Skenderaj, in particular via the extension of the capacity of Skenderaj pumping station, located next to the Shipol Water Treatment Plant (WTP) and further investment in a new pumping station at Klina reservoir to enable sufficient water to be sent to the newly constructed reservoir.
As part of Project KSV/018 Stage 2 investments, it was decided to install an additional new 3rd pump at Skenderaj pumping station, with a capacity of 140 l/s and 205 meters of head (20.5 bar). In order for this pump to be operational, an increase in the electrical power supply was also necessary so that either the existing two 70 l/s pumps could be simultaneously used, or only the new 140 l/s pump could be operated. The automation for this pumping station was installed (level indicator measurement), including a communication link with Ternavce Reservoir, considered a key water storage facility for supplying Skenderaj city and its surroundings with drinking water. The monitoring and controlling of the pumps’ operations is done from the Shipol WTP facilities.
This increase in the throughput up to 140 l/s was enabled at Skenderaj PS at the Shipol WTP, i.e. at the very beginning of the transmission line to Skenderaj. At the other end, the pumping station in Klina was newly constructed to accommodate two new pumps with 50 l/s capacity delivering the needed quantity of water to the new reservoir (Swiss investment).
The synergy effect of both donors’ investments has not only directly benefited the new customers of the extended water supply network in Skenderaj, but has provided an increase in the customer base of the MRWC which should directly contribute to increase its revenues.
