Montenegro’s Electric Utility (EPCG) has secured replacement electricity covering about 75% of the needs during the summer while the Pljevlja thermal power plant (TPP Pljevlja) undergoes ecological reconstruction, said Darko Krivokapić, head of the Energy Management Directorate.
The remaining 250 GWh of electricity needed will be contracted in May, with smaller additional quantities purchased as needed.
TPP Pljevlja has been offline since April 1 for the third phase of environmental upgrades, expected to last until November 15.
The total electricity required during the third quarter is about 800 GWh, costing approximately €80 million.
Despite reservoir levels being over 80%, river inflows are currently only about 75% of average due to low rainfall in April. However, forecasts for May are more optimistic.
Hydropower reservoirs Perućica and Piva hold about 160 GWh and 245 GWh respectively, preserved to prepare for the summer season.
Hydropower production from January to April reached 558 GWh, 76% of the planned target. Production in May and June will depend on river inflows, with reservoirs used only in exceptional cases to meet consumption or sell electricity at high prices.
TPP Pljevlja remains crucial for Montenegro’s electricity production, generating on average 140 GWh per month, worth about €14 million at current market prices.
