Energy efficiency continues to be a primary focus for the Government, as we believe a modern state thrives on intelligent, responsible, and sustainable infrastructure, stated Minister of Energy and Mining, Admir Šahmanović.

During the EPCG NET event held in Budva, he met with Pablo Obrador, the head of the transport and energy sector at the German Development Bank (KfW), to jointly assess the progress of the project aimed at enhancing energy efficiency in public buildings and explore avenues for future collaboration, as noted by the Ministry.

“This is a vital project that the Ministry of Energy and Mining is executing with the support of KfW Bank and the European Commission, aiming for the overall modernization of public infrastructure in Montenegro by enhancing energy efficiency, minimizing energy consumption, and improving citizens’ living and working conditions,” they elaborated.

The project titled “Increasing Energy Efficiency in Public Buildings (PEEPB)” has a total budget nearing 60 million euros: with 45 million euros provided as a loan by KfW bank, 4.78 million euros as a grant from the European Commission (REEP Plus / WBIF), and up to 10 million euros sourced from national co-financing through the state budget.

To date, 25 million euros have been utilized. Completed works include educational institutions in Tuzi, Kotor, Nikšić, Cetinje, and Bar.

“Work is currently progressing on facilities of particular significance, such as the Nursing Home in Risan (valued at 6.56 million euros excluding VAT). Additionally, work is anticipated to commence shortly on facilities in Berane, Bijelo Polje, and schools in Risan and Herceg Novi,” the statement mentions.

Ongoing projects include public facilities and schools in Podgorica, Plav, Gusinje, Rožaje, and Nikšić as they are in the development and preparation stages.

The main objectives of the project encompass: reconstruction and construction of public buildings under modern energy efficiency standards; establishing a student dormitory in Cetinje—the first public building in Montenegro compliant with the “nearly zero energy consumption” (NZEB) criteria; modernization of educational, social, and administrative buildings; as well as implementing a central information system to monitor energy and water usage in the public sector.

The ministry affirms that this initiative reaffirms the government’s “strategic commitment” to sustainable development and prudent resource management.

They assert that enhancing energy efficiency transcends mere cost-saving measures; it is an investment in the long-term stability of public finances, the quality of life for citizens, and environmental conservation.

Šahmanović and Obrador also discussed the potential for “continuing successful and reliable cooperation” between the Ministry of Energy and Mining and KfW Bank.

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