The public consultation on Montenegro’s draft National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) concluded on Friday. According to the Ministry of Energy, the final report and draft plan could be published within two months, while the decision on the country’s first major new hydroelectric plant is expected by the end of the year.
The plan addresses the future of the Pljevlja Thermal Power Plant (TPP), Montenegro’s current main electricity source. Pljevlja TPP, built in 1982, may cease operations by 2041. Its closure requires the construction of two large reversible hydroelectric plants, supported by new solar and wind farms, to maintain grid stability.
The NECP identifies Komarnica and Kruševo as priority hydro projects. Komarnica would be an accumulation plant, and Kruševo a reversible plant, with expected completion in 2032 and 2033, respectively. These projects will allow Pljevlja TPP to gradually reduce output and fully shut down by 2041.
The plan also notes that the EU will impose a carbon levy on coal-fired power from next year. Montenegro aims to delay this obligation until 2030, which would otherwise significantly increase electricity costs. Investments by the state-owned EPCG and private investors in new hydro, wind, and solar capacity are projected at €2.5 billion by 2035.
Globally, the construction of reversible hydro plants is increasing, supporting renewable energy integration, flood control, irrigation, and local economic development. EPCG highlights international cooperation, including projects with EDF and legislative frameworks, to ensure technical reliability and support a just energy transition.
Montenegro may request exemption from the EU carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) until 2030, allowing a gradual alignment with EU emission regulations.
