Pljevlja, a municipality in Montenegro that heavily relies on coal, is navigating the complexities of a long-term energy transition. In this context, tourism is not seen as a direct replacement for the energy sector but rather as a complementary stabilizer that can support the local economy.
The region boasts various tourism assets, including mountain landscapes, cultural monuments, and its strategic location near cross-border routes with Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Although visitor numbers are currently low, niche tourists typically stay for 2–4 nights, spending approximately €90–130 per day, which contributes to high local economic retention.
While employment opportunities in tourism are still limited, they are on the rise, providing an essential diversification avenue as jobs in the energy sector decline. The net wages in the tourism sector range from €750–1,000, offering alternative income sources for residents in a municipality undergoing structural changes.
The fiscal impact of tourism in Pljevlja remains modest at present; however, it holds potential for contributing to just transition strategies. By supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), enhancing services, and bolstering community resilience, tourism could play a significant role in the local economy. A strategic investment of between €10–15 million aimed at developing cultural and nature tourism infrastructure could help integrate Pljevlja into wider northern itineraries, thereby mitigating the economic repercussions of the ongoing energy transition.
