French renewable energy firm Qair is set to enhance its investment footprint in Montenegro with the development of the 64.8 MW Momče wind farm, located near Podgorica. This initiative will contribute to the company’s expanding portfolio in the Balkans and support Montenegro’s objectives for large-scale renewable energy generation.
Project documentation indicates that the wind farm will cover around 52 hectares and consist of nine wind turbines with a total installed capacity of 64.8 MW. This project adds to Qair’s active presence in Montenegro, where it has established itself as a leading international renewable energy developer since beginning operations in 2021. The company currently has a renewable energy portfolio in Montenegro estimated at approximately 220 MW, which includes both wind and solar projects expected to be operational from 2028 onwards.
The significance of the Momče project lies in its contribution to renewable energy investment along the central Montenegrin grid corridor connected to Podgorica. As electricity demand rises and the country seeks to reduce reliance on coal, particularly from the Pljevlja thermal power plant, enhancing transmission access and balancing infrastructure becomes increasingly vital for future renewable initiatives. Montenegro’s energy transition is being driven by multiple factors, including EU climate commitments and enhanced integration into regional electricity markets.
For Qair, this wind project aligns with its comprehensive strategy in Montenegro, which encompasses utility-scale solar, wind, and potentially battery-storage solutions. The company’s most prominent project is the 50.13 MW Rudine solar plant near Nikšić, which has received grid-connection approval from CGES and is progressing toward construction readiness.
Qair has also solidified its institutional presence in Montenegro through partnerships with state utility EPCG and involvement in the newly established RES Montenegro renewable energy association, created with support from organizations such as the EBRD. This collaboration includes other developers like Alcazar Energy and Simes.
The introduction of another utility-scale wind project signifies ongoing structural changes within Montenegro’s energy sector. The government’s updated renewable energy framework, which aligns with EU regulations, has implemented new auction systems, streamlined permitting processes, and enhanced transparency regarding grid access and market entry for investors. Authorities have already planned for at least 400 MW of additional renewable capacity auctions by 2027.
From an investment standpoint, Montenegro is emerging as a rapidly evolving renewable market within Southeast Europe. The country benefits from strong solar irradiation, favorable wind conditions, and improving regulatory alignment with the EU electricity market. However, developers still encounter significant challenges related to grid integration, balancing responsibilities, environmental permitting, and long-term transmission capacity development.
The proposed Momče wind farm thus represents more than just a single project; it is part of a larger transition within Montenegro’s power sector aimed at replacing outdated thermal generation with renewable assets capable of exporting energy while being integrated into the regional electricity market.
