The Gvozd wind farm, located on the Krnovo plateau close to Nikšić, is approaching the final stages of construction, with initial electricity generation anticipated to commence ahead of schedule. Project updates indicate that the wind farm could start producing power approximately four months earlier than initially planned, representing a significant step in Montenegro’s shift towards renewable energy sources.
This wind farm is a crucial addition to Montenegro’s electricity infrastructure, which has predominantly depended on hydropower and the Pljevlja coal-fired power plant for its energy needs. Once operational, it will be the first major renewable energy installation developed by the state-owned utility Elektroprivreda Crne Gore (EPCG) in over 40 years, marking a new phase of investment in domestic energy production capabilities.
Situated within a high-wind corridor, the facility will feature eight wind turbines with a total installed capacity of 54.6 MW. It is projected to generate around 150 GWh of electricity each year, sufficient to meet the energy requirements of about 25,000 households.
The project is part of EPCG’s broader strategy to expand renewable energy resources. The initial phase will be followed by an additional stage aimed at increasing the total capacity to approximately 75 MW and boosting annual electricity output to over 210 GWh upon completion.
Financial backing for this initiative has been provided by international financial institutions. Notably, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has extended a loan package exceeding €100 million to facilitate both the construction and expansion phases of the wind farm project.
In addition to enhancing renewable energy capacity, the project necessitated substantial upgrades to grid infrastructure. This includes a new 33/110 kV substation at Gvozd, expansions to the existing Krnovo substation, and new 110 kV transmission lines linking the wind farm with Montenegro’s electrical grid.
The Gvozd wind farm is expected to play a vital role in diversifying Montenegro’s energy generation portfolio. Historically reliant on hydropower, which can be affected by dry conditions, this new source of wind energy aims to bolster energy security while contributing to reduced carbon emissions.
The project also holds regional significance. Although Montenegro already hosts other wind parks like Krnovo and Možura developed with international partners, Gvozd stands out as a domestically driven renewable initiative within EPCG’s framework. Its realization marks a notable shift towards increased local engagement in renewable energy development.
Upon full commissioning, it is anticipated that the Gvozd wind farm will prevent tens of thousands of tonnes of carbon emissions each year, aligning with Montenegro’s long-term decarbonization goals and European climate policies. The initiation of electricity production from this facility signifies a transformative moment in Montenegro’s energy landscape, where wind power will increasingly complement hydropower in the national energy mix.
