The Pljevlja Coal Mine (RUP) is set to establish a factory focused on producing occupational health and safety equipment. They have secured a rental space from Castelo Montenegro in the Radosavac area of Pljevlja.

Renovations are currently in progress, and in addition to the new HTZ equipment factory, RUP’s existing warehouse will be moved from its current location in a residential building that was developed several years ago on the site of an old mining workshop.

“Launching a factory for HTZ equipment production aligns with our just transition strategy as we transform our business at RUP. This initiative aims to ensure employment continuity for local workers after the eventual end of coal mining in Pljevlja. The factory will be situated in a rented space, covering around 1300 square meters, which we identified as suitable for our needs from Castelo Montenegro. A portion will serve as a warehouse, while approximately 300 square meters will be designated for the installation of machinery used to manufacture HTZ equipment. Previously, our warehouse was inadequate and located in a residential area,” stated the coal mine’s management led by executive director Nemanja Laković.

The largest enterprise in Pljevlja reports that market analysis supports the viability of a factory for HTZ equipment.

“The Occupational Safety and Health Act mandates the use of HTZ equipment during work processes. RUP spends around 800,000 euros annually on various HTZ equipment. By starting internal production, we foresee significant savings. Initially, the factory will focus on a textile program for HTZ equipment, which allows us to satisfy our immediate needs. This endeavor not only enables cost savings but also helps preserve jobs,” RUP emphasizes.

While the number of new hires for the factory remains unspecified, RUP has conducted interviews with employees interested in retraining, aiming to facilitate a successful training and upskilling process.

The training program will last between three to six months, led by seasoned professionals with extensive production experience.

Looking ahead, RUP intends to broaden its production scope to tap into additional markets.

As part of the just transition framework, the state-owned enterprise recently secured an asphalt base from the bankruptcy administrators of “Vektra Jakić,” with operations expected to commence by the end of March following renovations.

A 40-megawatt solar power plant is also planned at the Grevo landfill site, alongside a designed project for a 2.2-megawatt mini hydroelectric power plant at the Durutovići dam.

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