The launch of Montenegro’s first-ever renewable energy auction marks a turning point for the country’s energy sector, said Minister of Energy and Mining Admir Šahmanović. He stated that this auction model introduces a fair, transparent, and market-based system to support renewable energy projects for the first time in the country’s history.
The auction process is expected to attract several hundred million euros in investments, creating conditions for rapid development of the energy sector, new job creation, and greater energy independence. Šahmanović emphasized that competition will serve the public interest, boosting supply security, attracting investors, and building trust in the energy market.
This step follows the government’s adoption of tender documents and relevant legislation, completing all regulatory requirements for launching the auction. The Ministry of Energy also recently issued a public call for awarding market premiums to renewable energy projects.
Šahmanović highlighted the broader economic and social benefits of energy reform, noting that growth in the energy sector supports other industries like construction, engineering, and tourism. He also pointed out the adoption of Montenegro’s first regulation on energy poverty, aimed at protecting the most vulnerable citizens.
The minister thanked institutional partners including EPCG, CGES, CEDIS, COTEE, BELEN, and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), which provided strategic support.
Montenegro is also preparing to align with the EU’s Clean Energy Package and aims to close negotiations on Chapter 15 (Energy). The country expects a positive opinion from the European Commission on the new law regarding cross-border electricity and gas exchange.
Plans for the rest of 2025 include adopting the National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) and advancing renewable hydrogen projects, with the goal of positioning Montenegro as a regional leader in green energy.
Finally, Šahmanović acknowledged challenges like the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), stressing that accelerating the transition to renewable energy is the only way to maintain competitiveness and climate resilience. He concluded by reaffirming Montenegro’s vision of becoming a regional energy hub and a strong, sovereign player in the European energy market.
