Montenegro's Green Transition

Besides the direct budget support, the EU energy support package also includes the second part, consisting of grants to advance the Western Balkans’ energy transition, efficiency, and independence in the short- and medium-term.  One of the initiatives in Montenegro that includes support by the Second part of Energy package is the project “Promotion of Energy Efficiency in Public Buildings – Greening Public Infrastructure in Montenegro” in the administrative, social, and educational sectors implemented by the Ministry of Capital Investments of Montenegro. The objective is to improve energy efficiency in selected public buildings, which will contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving the Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC). In addition, renewable energy (e.g. solar energy or bioenergy) should be used where possible. The project is implemented as part of The Regional Energy Efficiency Programme (REEP).

The Project focuses on public buildings that were mainly constructed between the 1930s and 1980s and which became obsolete. Chronic problems are: outdated heating systems with low efficiency, badly insulated and leaky roofs, worn single-glazed windows, and thermal bridges all leading to mould and many other defects. The energy consumption is correspondingly high, the user-friendliness (indoor climate, comfort) is severely restricted, and many buildings have almost reached the end of their useful economic and technical life. After the implementation of the structural and energy efficiency measures, the terms of use shall be improved and the operating costs shall be decreased significantly. High visibility of the investments in the public sector shall also serve as an example for private households and the private sector. The Project will cover approximately 20 buildings (schools, one dormitory, one home for elderly people and one administrative building).

Overseeing the project is Djordjina Lovric, acting as the project manager on behalf of the Ministry of Energy and Mining of Montenegro. She underscores the project’s profound significance for Montenegro’s public buildings. “Currently, we are executing renovation work on three schools that were built in the 1960s. Our initial estimates indicate that these schools will achieve energy savings of up to 50%,” Djordjina states. She goes on to emphasize that, apart from the economic benefits, the project’s interventions will also play a crucial role in reducing CO2 emissions, thereby contributing to environmental preservation and enhancing the overall comfort levels of students and teachers in these educational institutions.

By enhancing the energy efficiency of public buildings, these investments are aligned with the commitments outlined in Montenegro’s Law on the Efficient Utilization of Energy, which is modelled on EU directives. This initiative will result in a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, thereby contributing to the achievement of the nation’s predetermined goals in environmental conservation. Furthermore, these investments will play a role in job preservation and generation within the domestic construction and consultancy sectors.

Mrs. Djordjina Lovric elaborates on the widespread recognition and evident advantages offered by the project to schools and other institutions. “Schools operate with a fixed annual budget, and in addition to the various benefits, they will also have the opportunity to allocate the financial surplus generated through energy savings for other purposes. This could include acquiring new equipment, computers, and other resources aimed at elevating the educational standards within these institutions,” Djordjina highlights.