The energy sector is highly sensitive, and investments are essential rather than luxurious, stated the Minister of Energy and Mining, Admir Šahmanović, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in this process.

Šahmanović, along with the executive directors of the three main state energy entities—Elektroprivreda (EPCG), Montenegrin Electricity Distribution System (CEDIS), and Montenegrin Electricity Transmission System (CGES)—conducted a working visit to Plav, Berane, and Rožaje today.

The Ministry of Energy and Mining highlighted that this marks the first joint visit of its kind, aimed at directly assessing investment priorities in electricity infrastructure, the current state of the distribution and transmission network, and the potential of these municipalities for renewable energy projects.

They outlined three key focus areas: enhancing the security of electricity supply, particularly in rural regions; modernizing and expanding the current network; and creating opportunities for new projects centered on solar, wind, and bioenergy.

Šahmanović remarked that today’s visit was significant and beneficial—providing insight into the urgent needs of these communities and the development opportunities in “green energy” initiatives.

“Investments totaling eight million euros are currently underway in this area, with an additional three million expected to be realized by the year’s end,” Šahmanović noted, pointing out that these investments aim to revitalize the distribution network for improved service to both urban and rural areas.

He also mentioned visiting the site in Plav where a new CEDIS office building will be constructed.

“We learned about the plans for the remainder of the year, and we have good reasons to be optimistic, which allows us to plan investments for the upcoming medium-term period,” stated Šahmanović.

He recalled that last summer, Montenegro experienced a total power outage, a situation mirrored in Spain and France.

“This serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of our energy system and reinforces that investments are imperative, not optional. We are fortifying the network and advancing green energy—not for private interests, but for the benefit of every citizen—from farmers and livestock breeders to tourism professionals and entrepreneurs,” emphasized Šahmanović.

He added that energy infrastructure, along with transportation and utility systems, forms the foundation of societal development.

“No one ought to be left out of this progression. Effective communication with local governments is essential, and projects of public, national importance require diligent attention,” stated Šahmanović.

The delegation visited key locations in Plav, Berane, and Rožaje, engaging with local community representatives and sector experts to identify priority needs and expedite project planning.

The Ministry reported that Šahmanović and the directors of state energy companies conducted a working meeting with the mayor in Rožaje to discuss common interests, ranging from power supply stability and network capacity to potential investment and educational collaborations with local authorities.

EPCG Executive Director Ivan Bulatović noted that northern Montenegro possesses vast energy potential alongside specific requirements.

“Our mission is to develop both energy production and local supply security concurrently,” Bulatović remarked.

CEDIS Executive Director Vladimir Ivanović indicated that modernizing the low-voltage network and ensuring stable power supply in rural areas are top priorities for the energy company, asserting that the field visit is a crucial step towards swifter implementation.

“Alongside funds allocated for individual investments, CEDIS invests approximately 40 million euros annually in measurement equipment, SCADA preparation, and power facility reconstruction, with around 20 percent directed towards Region 3, which includes Plav, Rožaje, Berane, Petnjica, Andrijevica, and Gusinje,” Ivanović elaborated.

CGES Executive Director Ivan Asanović emphasized the strategic importance of enhancing the transmission system in Montenegro’s north.

“CGES is proactively developing and reinforcing the transmission network to facilitate the reliable integration of wind and solar power plants, providing vital support for the green transition and a sustainable energy future,” stated Asanović.

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