Crnogorski elektroprenosni sistem (CGES), the French Development Agency (AFD) and RTE International have signed a €950,000 grant agreement for technical support aimed at strengthening the energy transition and aligning with European standards.
According to CGES, the agreement marks an ambitious collaboration to modernize Montenegro’s electricity transmission infrastructure and support the integration of renewable energy sources.
The goal of the project is the reconstruction and expansion of the 225/110 kV “Perućica” substation and the replacement of two outdated autotransformers at the “Pljevlja” substation, both of which are critical for the stability of the national grid.
The project aims to improve the capacity of the Montenegrin grid to integrate new renewable energy sources, reduce losses, and contribute to Montenegro’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
CGES CEO Ivan Asanović expressed his satisfaction with the partnership, noting that it will strengthen Montenegro’s energy security and prepare the country to meet the demands of the European energy market.
Cyril Belie, Vice President for Europe, the Middle East, and Asia at AFD, emphasized that the agreement with CGES underscores their mutual dedication to supporting the energy transition and sustainable development in the Western Balkans. “We aim to help align their energy transition with European Union (EU) requirements,” said Belie.
The contract was signed on behalf of RTE International by Thierry Buhugiar, and the signing ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Milojko Spajić, Finance Minister Novica Vuković, and the French Ambassador to Montenegro, An-Mari Maske.
In addition to strengthening Montenegro’s transmission infrastructure, the project will serve as a model for collaboration between CGES and RTE International, reinforcing France’s role in supporting Montenegro’s transition to a green economy.
“This partnership is a key element of Montenegro’s climate action plan, aligned with the goals of the Paris Agreement, and a decisive step toward a more resilient and sustainable energy system in the Balkans,” CGES stated.
The €950,000 cooperation program includes studies for the implementation of digital solutions and optimization of the management and monitoring of Montenegro’s grid.
The French Development Agency, in support of European integration and green transition in the Balkans, is financing this strategic project with technical expertise from RTE International.
RTE International, a subsidiary of the French transmission system operator, is one of Europe’s leading consultants for power systems, providing tailored solutions to enhance the reliability and efficiency of electricity infrastructure worldwide.
