How much electricity does Montenegro need?

With around 621 000 inhabitants, Montenegro’s electricity needs are mainly met by the 225 MW lignite power plant at Pljevlja and the 307 MW Perućica and 342 MW Piva hydropower plants, all run by state-owned utility Elektroprivreda Crne Gore (EPCG).

Where is electricity produced in Montenegro?

The majority of electricity in Montenegro is primarily produced at the Pljevlja coal-fired Thermal Power Plant, the Perucica, and the Piva Hydro Plants. The Montenegrin state-owned Electrical Power Company’s (EPCG) core activity is electricity generation, transmission, distribution, and supply.

Can Montenegro reduce energy demand?

Montenegro has great potential for reducing demand through more efficient energy use. According to IEA statistics, Montenegro’s energy intensity has been falling slightly in recent years but is still more than twice that of the EU-28. Inefficient practices such as using electrical heaters for heating are widespread.

Can Montenegro expand its natural gas capacity?

Different sources cite varying levels of potential, but all show that a significant expansion of capacity is possible. Montenegro has no infrastructure for natural gas distribution and does not currently extract oil, though the government is interested in oil and gas production in the Adriatic Sea.

Should Montenegro build a hydropower plant?

As in other Balkan countries, the construction of small hydropower plants has caused widespread public outcry, but in 2020 they generated just 3 per cent of Montenegro’s electricity. Against the fluctuating background of hydropower generation, difficult decisions need to be taken on the Pljevlja lignite power plant and nearby mines.

Does Montenegro have a solar farm?

The Komarnica valley is also nominated as an Emerald and Natura 2000 site and includes the unique Nevidio Canyon, which is protected as a Natural Monument. Montenegro has so far made little use of its solar potential, but in 2018 a tender for a 250 MW solar farm was completed. However, its construction has been delayed by spatial planning issues.