The planned shutdown year for the Pljevlja thermal power plant (TPP Pljevlja) is 2041, but this largely depends on the success of the just transition process and maintaining a secure electricity supply. The plant will gradually reduce operating hours over the coming years, according to a key strategic document recently released for public consultation, announced by the Action for Social Justice (ASP).
The draft National Energy and Climate Plan of Montenegro, now open for public comment after three years of delays, is a crucial strategic document that will replace the current Energy Development Strategy until 2030 and the National Climate Change Strategy until 2030.
The document notes that TPP Pljevlja has been the most stable electricity source in Montenegro over the past 40 years. Together with the Perućica and Piva hydroelectric plants, it covers more than 85% of domestic electricity production. While hydroelectric production is unstable on annual and monthly levels, the stable output from TPP Pljevlja plays a vital role.
Although TPP Pljevlja’s production cost is higher than that of hydro plants, their combined output keeps electricity prices competitive. Consumer electricity prices in Montenegro are heavily subsidized due to social standards, a situation made possible by Elektroprivreda Crne Gore, which will continue relying on TPP Pljevlja until enough new renewable energy sources are secured.
The document warns that replacing TPP Pljevlja’s output with imported electricity would significantly raise consumer prices. Revised project documentation and guarantees indicate that the plant’s planned ecological reconstruction will meet all emission standards required to obtain environmental operating permits. This reconstruction, worth tens of millions of euros, is expected to be completed by November, and the plant is currently not operating.
The ecological upgrade aims to fulfill emissions standards rather than reduce greenhouse gases, ensuring compliance for continued operation.
TPP Pljevlja directly and indirectly supports over 3,000 jobs and is a key driver of the northern Montenegrin economy. Should the plant cease operation, Montenegro lacks an alternative energy source to fill the gap.
The public consultation on the draft National Energy and Climate Plan runs until early August. ASP plans to submit its comments and has recently provided over 120 suggestions on various legal and strategic documents.
