In a groundbreaking shift that promises to redefine Albania’s geospatial landscape, the country is transitioning from an outdated coordinate system to a modern, globally aligned framework. This transformation, detailed in a recent study published in ‘Micro, Macro & Mezzo Geoinformation’ (translated as ‘Micro, Macro & Mezzo Geoinformation’), is set to enhance accuracy, interoperability, and efficiency across various sectors, including energy, urban planning, and environmental monitoring.
The study, led by Pal Nikolli from the University of Tirana’s Geography department, explores the evolution from EPSG:2462, the Albanian 1987 / Gauss–Krüger zone 4 system, to EPSG:6870, the ETRS89 / Albania TM 2010 framework. The former, based on the Krasovsky 1940 ellipsoid, has served Albania for decades but has significant limitations, particularly in GNSS compatibility and planimetric distortions.
“EPSG:2462 was a legacy system that, while functional, posed challenges in terms of interoperability with international datasets and accuracy,” Nikolli explains. “The transition to EPSG:6870 is a strategic advancement that aligns Albania with European and global standards, enhancing positional accuracy and spatial integrity.”
The new system, built upon the GRS80 ellipsoid and the ETRS89 datum, offers numerous advantages. It enables higher positional accuracy, improved institutional interoperability, and seamless integration into continental geodetic networks. This is particularly crucial for the energy sector, where precise geospatial data is essential for infrastructure development, resource management, and environmental impact assessments.
The establishment of the Albanian Geodetic Reference Framework 2010 (KRGJSH2010) and the adoption of EPSG:6870 represent a fundamental modernization of the national geodetic infrastructure. This transformation is expected to significantly reduce positional discrepancies, strengthen spatial integrity, and standardize geospatial workflows across Albania.
The study also highlights the challenges associated with transforming historical datasets and the practical implications for GIS applications, digital cartography, and urban planning. Nikolli emphasizes the need for enhancing professional capacities for geodetic transformations and ensuring controlled and well-documented migration of legacy datasets.
“Investing in the National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI) and promoting the adoption of international geospatial standards are crucial steps in this transition,” Nikolli adds. “This will not only improve the quality and accuracy of geospatial information but also support the development of a robust and interoperable national geospatial infrastructure.”
The transition to EPSG:6870 is poised to shape future developments in the field, setting a precedent for other countries looking to modernize their geospatial frameworks. As Albania aligns with contemporary European best practices in geodesy and cartography, it paves the way for enhanced commercial opportunities and technological advancements, particularly in the energy sector.
This research, published in ‘Micro, Macro & Mezzo Geoinformation’, underscores the importance of spatial standardization and the strategic benefits of adopting modern geodetic systems. As the world continues to evolve, the need for accurate and interoperable geospatial data becomes increasingly critical, and Albania’s transition to EPSG:6870 is a significant step in that direction.