Montenegro is set to prolong the development deadlines for the 112 MW Sinjajevina I wind farm project, as the state-controlled transmission operator, CGES, prepares for an estimated €40 million acquisition of infrastructure designed to connect the project with the grid and facilitate additional renewable energy capacity.
The proposed contractual amendment aims to provide the investor with additional time to finalize project design and secure a construction permit following previous permitting delays. The initial development phase is expected to be extended to 36 months, while construction could take up to 60 months following the issuance of the permit.
Located near Kolašin, the Sinjajevina I project plans to deploy 17 wind turbines, contributing approximately 112 MW of installed capacity. Current projections indicate that commercial operations may commence around 2030, positioning it among Montenegro’s significant wind projects anticipated in the upcoming decade.
The infrastructure necessary for connecting the wind farm is initially intended for development specifically for Sinjajevina I and will later be transferred to Crnogorski elektroprenosni sistem, CGES, in accordance with Montenegro’s energy regulations. The total value of these assets has been estimated at around €40 million.
Due to the financial implications of this transaction, shareholder approval from CGES is required. An extraordinary meeting for shareholders is scheduled for September 30, with connection agreements projected to be signed by October or November 2026.
This arrangement is critical as having a robust grid-connection framework is essential for large renewable projects seeking financing and progressing towards construction.
Montenegro has developed a considerable pipeline of proposed wind and solar initiatives; however, only those projects that can secure necessary permits, connection capacity, and financing are expected to reach commercial operation.
The forthcoming milestones for Sinjajevina I will be crucial, highlighting that securing a connection agreement, obtaining a construction permit, finalizing financing, and procuring turbines are vital steps in transitioning from development to execution.
The extension reflects the challenges in adhering to original timelines for large renewable projects. Factors such as spatial planning, environmental approvals, land arrangements, technical studies, and grid documentation can significantly delay construction.
The decision to extend the first phase to 36 months acknowledges that previous schedules were no longer feasible. The project continues to hold strategic importance as Montenegro looks to enhance its renewable energy generation capabilities in anticipation of reduced output from the Pljevlja coal plant.
Wind energy could play a complementary role alongside Montenegro’s extensive hydropower resources; however, additional storage and balancing resources will be necessary as variable renewable generation increases. Ultimately, Sinjajevina I could contribute an additional 112 MW of wind capacity during this transition.
The immediate challenge lies in ensuring that the planned CGES transaction and connection agreements are finalized this autumn. This completion is essential for advancing toward permitting, financing, and construction rather than facing further extensions.
