The statements made by Dritan Abazović, president of the Civic Movement URA, regarding the state of reservoirs and the operations of the Electric Power Company (EPCG), are unfounded and solely aimed at undermining a critical sector of Montenegro’s economy, as the company has articulated.

“We reject the baseless accusations made by Abazović concerning the condition of the reservoirs and the company’s operations,” EPCG stated in response to his claims that EPCG is intentionally reducing water levels to maximize electricity sales and thus enhance its performance.

EPCG has expressed that under normal circumstances, they would not need to respond to the remarks of individuals or organizations that evidently lack a sense of accountability for the words they share publicly.

“Nevertheless, as representatives of the nation’s leading company, we must highlight a concerning trend related to certain political figures attempting to garner cheap political gains at the expense of EPCG, its management, and its employees,” EPCG further remarked.

The company highlighted that hydrological cycles do not necessarily align with the calendar year; precipitation can vary significantly, being fulfilled over different time frames.

“As such, the Energy Balance is a dynamic document, adjusting itself in accordance with actual weather and market conditions,” they explained.

“This Balance indicated expected precipitation for November and December of the previous year, which, regrettably, did not materialize. In light of this, EPCG has responsibly utilized its reservoirs to maintain system stability and ensure uninterrupted service to consumers. Adhering to Abazović’s logic would have left us with excess water, akin to wasted resources, exposing citizens and the economy to energy shortages,” the company elucidated.

EPCG asserts that data indicates year-to-year fluctuations in reservoir levels.

For instance, at the close of 2022, EPCG found itself with 110 gigawatt hours (GWh) beyond expectations, while by the end of 2023, this excess was measured at 64 GWh.

“Conversely, last year presented challenging hydrological conditions, resulting in reservoir levels falling short of projections. Yet, we are witnessing our precipitation from the first quarter of this year compensating for that deficit, and we anticipate that by the end of March, levels will exceed expectations, as evidenced by the Piva Hydroelectric Power Plant (HPP),” EPCG added.

Concerning their financial outcomes, EPCG categorically denies the allegations of concealing such information, calling these claims unfounded and malicious.

“As in every year, EPCG will release its preliminary financial reports on schedule, per legal requirements, and we are confident that the outcome will be positive,” the company affirmed.

EPCG noted that Abazović is well aware that the former Minister of Energy, Saša Mujović, does not influence the decisions regarding reservoir management.

“These decisions lie exclusively with the EPCG management and the Board of Directors. Therefore, invoking former Minister Mujović is unrelated to energy matters and is merely a reflection of Abazović’s personal grievances. His inability to tolerate Mujović has no correlation with EPCG and is better suited for discussion by experts in unrelated fields,” EPCG stated.

Regarding the Pljevlja Thermal Power Plant (TPP), EPCG representatives asserted that they are diligently pursuing its environmental overhaul as per all contractual obligations and realistic timelines.

“Attempts to propagate misinformation about the potential closure of the Pljevlja TPP are frivolous and cause unnecessary alarm among the public. Coordinating the upgrade with Coal Mine obligations, including the relocation of Ćehotina, forms part of a strategic framework under which responsible and collaborative actions are being taken,” EPCG continued.

EPCG emphasized that inciting panic and disseminating false information does not detract from their commitment to act in the best interests of citizens and Montenegro’s energy stability.

“Instead of voicing unfounded claims, it would be more beneficial for Abazović to familiarize himself with the fundamental principles of the electricity system—or at the very least, refrain from comments that do not aid in resolving issues but rather incite confusion in public discourse,” EPCG added.

According to its representatives, EPCG remains devoted to responsible resource management, stable electricity supply, and the strategic progress of the energy sector, irrespective of attempts to convert expert decisions into political theatrics.

Citizens, they stated, deserve a serious and responsible approach to energy policy, not populist rhetoric that disregards facts and the fundamental laws of the profession.

“We perform our duties diligently and effectively, benefiting both the company and all citizens, leaving it to Abazović to ascertain why his views are met with diminishing public support. Our company is poised to complete projects valued at nearly 600 million euros by 2027, and we send Abazović warm regards from the Sunny City, wishing him good health,” the statement concludes.

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