Elektroprivreda Crne Gore (EPCG) is entering the final phase of the environmental reconstruction and modernization of the Pljevlja thermal power plant with full operational and logistical readiness. As part of this process, the plant will be temporarily shut down on March 31, 2025, to commence the final works on this significant project, EPCG announced.
A press conference was held today at the Pljevlja thermal power plant, attended by Milutin Đukanović, President of the EPCG Board of Directors; Ivan Bulatović, CEO; Ljubiša Đurković, Technical Director; Miro Vračar, Executive Manager of FC Production; Žarko Ćaćić, Head of the Pljevlja TPP Branch; and Nemanja Laković, CEO of the Pljevlja Coal Mine.
According to EPCG, during the conference, it was emphasized that the environmental reconstruction project, valued at nearly €70 million (excluding VAT), will significantly extend the plant’s lifespan and align it with modern environmental standards.
“More than 90% of the equipment, primarily sourced from China, has already been delivered and largely installed, while the remaining components are expected to arrive in June 2025. Logistics are proceeding according to plan—containers carrying equipment arrived at the Port of Bar and Pljevlja in mid-March, and a vessel carrying key materials for chimney lining is expected on April 6. At the peak of the works, approximately 200 workers will be engaged on-site, including around 170 skilled professionals and craftsmen, as well as 30 engineers and technical support staff,” EPCG stated.
They added that during the seven-and-a-half-month production halt, EPCG will compensate for the energy shortfall through imports, ensuring no impact on end consumers.
“A total of 788 GWh of electricity has already been contracted for purchase, valued at €81.7 million, with the possibility of further optimization through operational trading. Consumer supply will remain stable and uninterrupted. The environmental reconstruction project will not affect electricity prices in the upcoming period, and the rights and wages of employees at the Pljevlja TPP will not be reduced. The plant currently employs 182 workers, 165 of whom have permanent contracts. The collective agreement will be fully honored, and most production and maintenance workers will be actively involved in the planned overhaul activities,” the company stated.
In addition to the environmental reconstruction, the district heating project for Pljevlja is being implemented simultaneously, representing a significant step toward improving living conditions in the city.
“Our cooperation with the Pljevlja Coal Mine remains stable and fully synchronized. We continue to operate as a unified energy complex, with the shared goal of ensuring Montenegro’s secure and stable energy future. All activities are proceeding according to plan, with a clear focus on energy stability, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility,” EPCG concluded.
