The Montenegrin Government is taking significant steps to establish a new, sustainable energy source for the country after more than four decades. Their aim is to tap into Montenegro’s abundant natural resources and utilize ongoing projects such as the Komarnica, Kruševo, and Ćehotina hydroelectric power plants, each at various stages of development, according to Energy and Mining Minister Prof. Dr. Saša Mujović in an interview with eKapija.
These projects, while promising, come with their own set of challenges, particularly concerning environmental impact. Mujović stresses the importance of reaching a broader consensus, highlighting the potential partnership between ecology and energy.
In addition to hydroelectric power, Montenegro is actively exploring wind and solar energy. There’s substantial investor interest, with technical conditions already set for constructing power plants totaling around 4,000 MW. However, there are more investors interested than can currently be accommodated by the transmission and distribution system.
The development of a National Energy and Climate Plan is underway, expected to provide a roadmap for the energy sector. Mujović discusses the possibility of Montenegro moving away from coal and the Pljevlja Thermal Power Plant, as well as the partnership with EDF Energy. The conversation also touches on current issues such as the Brskovo mine in Mojkovac and the Bileća Lake.
While Montenegro’s current energy situation is stable, with sufficient electricity for domestic needs and some for export, Mujović emphasizes that this stability shouldn’t lead to complacency. Many challenges remain unresolved from previous periods.
The focus is on building new energy sources to ensure stability, especially with the eventual closure of the Pljevlja Thermal Power Plant. Mujović underscores the importance of understanding the time and political stability required for energy projects. This stability, he argues, is essential for energy independence, as demonstrated by recent global energy market crises.
The Komarnica hydroelectric power plant project is progressing, with ongoing assessment of its environmental impact. Mujović reaffirms the government’s commitment to broad consensus and public involvement in such significant projects.
Regarding the Pljevlja Thermal Power Plant, Mujović acknowledges the challenges of transitioning away from coal, both from an energy and socio-economic perspective. The preparation of the National Energy and Climate Plan will play a crucial role in defining Montenegro’s energy roadmap, considering various scenarios for phasing out coal and transitioning to renewable energy sources.
Ultimately, Montenegro’s energy future depends on careful planning, stakeholder alignment, and a commitment to sustainability.
