On 8 July, the EU Delegation announced that over €2.2 million in grant funding has been allocated to enhance energy efficiency in hotels throughout Montenegro. This initiative is part of a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Tourism, the European Union, the Ministry of Energy and Mining, and the Eco Fund. Additionally, a new public call for funding amounting to €500,000 is anticipated in September 2026.
The Ministry of Tourism has also partnered with EPCG to promote and implement solar photovoltaic systems at tourism facilities. This strategic move is driven by the need for hotels to manage rising operational costs, including near-European prices for food and equipment, increasing labor expenses, and the seasonal nature of tourism in the region. By investing in solar energy and reducing electricity consumption, hotels can safeguard their profit margins, particularly those located along the coast where demand for cooling and hot water is high.
For financial institutions, successful hotel projects will integrate energy-efficiency strategies with established consumption metrics, feasible solar generation forecasts, and well-defined maintenance responsibilities. While grants can enhance project profitability, factors such as equipment selection, roof integrity, fire safety compliance, grid connection approvals, and alignment with seasonal energy demands are crucial for realizing anticipated savings.
