The launch of the “Ubli 1” solar power facility, valued at nearly five million euros, embodies more than just a technical milestone; it signifies a leap toward a more environmentally friendly, self-sustaining energy future for Montenegro, demonstrating that it is feasible to harmonize economic growth with ecological preservation.

This was revealed during the official inauguration of the “Ubli 1” solar plant in the Ubli area, an event hosted by Energo Finanza doo, as reported by PR Center.

Admir Šahmanović, Montenegro’s Minister of Energy and Mining, highlighted that the energy transition is not a distant dream but is occurring right now.

“This solar power plant serves as the best evidence that Montenegro is advancing confidently and decisively. This initiative is the result of a vision, collaboration, and trust. It embodies the belief that energy policy can be sustainable, economically advantageous, and environmentally conscious. It reflects the partnership between the state and responsible investors, and builds trust with citizens, as only together can we achieve energy independence and ecological equilibrium,” Šahmanović stated.

He asserted that solar energy goes beyond mere electricity generation.

“It fosters development, generates new jobs, encourages technological advancement, strengthens regional connections, and contributes to economic stability,” Šahmanović added.

He noted that a clear message is being sent today: “that we possess the knowledge, resources, and political will to confront the challenges of the 21st century.”

“We do not wait for change; we create it. I am confident that this is merely the first of many days marked by pride and progress. Days when Montenegro will not only tap into its resources but also export knowledge, experience, and best practices. Let this project serve as more than just a testament to our achievements; let it inspire everything that lies ahead,” Šahmanović emphasized.

Danijela Jović, financial advisor and coordinator of the Vesuvius Consortium, expressed that initiatives like this new solar plant merit special attention, as they signify hope for Montenegro’s greater strides toward energy sustainability, combating climate change, and minimizing harmful emissions.

“The project is a collaboration between the local firm System MNE, boasting decades of experience in power plant design, and their international partner, Finanza, which not only provided financial backing but also deployed a team of experts. It’s worth noting that this company is part of the distinguished Vesuvius consortium and focuses exclusively on green energy,” Jović explained.

She mentioned that nearly five million euros have been invested in the current solar initiative, expressing hope that this marks just the beginning of future green efforts, according to PR Center.

“We believe that investing in renewable energy sources can unlock opportunities from significant global investors. Therefore, maintaining understanding and trust in the upcoming period is crucial. This project proves we can achieve that. I genuinely hope we can safeguard our natural resources for future generations, as Montenegro is rich in potential, but only with ecological awareness and harmony with nature can we become worthy stewards of its beauty and strength,” Jović added.

She acknowledged that this project wouldn’t have been feasible without the full backing of the Ministry of Energy and state-owned energy companies, and expressed special gratitude to the expert team.

Natalija Radonjić, representative of the partner company System MNE, stated that the construction of the “Ubli 1” solar plant signifies a pivotal advance towards a greener and self-sufficient energy future for Montenegro, particularly for the capital region of Podgorica.

“This initiative confirms that we can foster a balance between economic growth and environmental conservation,” Radonjić noted.

She emphasized the exceptional significance of the collaboration established with Finanza Holdings Limited from Cyprus.

“This is a respected firm with a clear vision and high standards, and we greatly value its trust and partnership. Our shared objective was not merely to complete another infrastructure project but to make a lasting contribution to the sustainable development and energy transition of our region,” Radonjić stated.

She elaborated that every phase of this initiative, from initial terrain analysis to meticulous design and responsible execution, was marked by commitment, expertise, and mutual trust.

“To highlight some figures from this project: 9,288 solar panels, 17 inverters, 17 AC cable route cabinets equipped with 68 single-core 0.8 kV cables, 51 km of DC cables, 4.5 km of Ethernet cables, a 2 x 2.5 MVA transformer station, and a 35 kV angle-tension pole, which collectively yield 5 MW of simultaneous output power, or 8 GWh of renewable energy annually, resulting in annual CO2 emissions savings of 5,561.65 tons,” Radonjić detailed.

Prof. Radoje Vujadinović, Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Montenegro, mentioned the satisfaction that arises when theoretical knowledge manifests in practical applications, remarking that it represents the peak of professional accomplishment for him, as cited by PR Center.

“Concrete projects like this one affirm our mission and demonstrate that education can directly affect societal development. The University of Montenegro aims to remain a large open-air laboratory, enabling students, not just in Mechanical Engineering but across all technical disciplines, to gain practical experience through professional practice and educational processes. This is the direction we are pursuing,” Vujadinović said.

He remarked that the solar power plant represents a significant advancement, not only in energy production.

“Being the largest land-based solar power facility in Montenegro ready for commissioning, its worth extends beyond energy frameworks. This initiative provides a strong impetus for the country’s sustainable growth and builds investor confidence. I believe this project marks the beginning of a new chapter in Montenegro’s development,” noted Vujadinović.

He expressed hope that future energy endeavors would be executed more swiftly across Montenegro, with full collaboration among all stakeholders—from local communities and NGOs to local governments and state entities aware of their responsibilities.

“Energy represents a developmental opportunity that Montenegro must seize,” Vujadinović urged.

He recounted that he once stood in Ubli when the concept was still a mere idea.

“We are now on a typical Montenegrin karst area that previously offered no benefits to its owners. Today, it has transformed entirely. This site has become an energy facility, a ‘factory’ producing electricity from renewable sources, capable of supplying over 1,500 households while mitigating CO₂ emissions by approximately 5,500 tons annually,” Vujadinović explained.

He believes this concept should be adopted nationwide, “to smartly utilize vacant lands and convert them into valuable energy resources.”

“I am also pleased that investors are considering harnessing wind energy potential. I wish for them to lead the charge in Montenegro’s energy transition and decarbonization efforts. The Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and the University of Montenegro will continue to be sincere partners on this journey,” Vujadinović concluded.

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