The CEO of the Pljevlja Coal Mine, Nemanja Laković, stated in an interview that the company will face a financial deficit of approximately 48 million euros due to the ongoing repairs at the Pljevlja thermal power plant (TE Pljevlja). Laković emphasized that the coming year would be particularly challenging for the entire energy sector, but the company is working on measures to overcome the situation.
Despite this, the company is expected to finish the year with a positive result, with projections indicating a profit of around 15 million euros, which could rise to over 20 million euros given the ongoing investment projects and longer-than-planned maintenance of the thermal power plant.
Laković further explained that the repair of the thermal power plant would lead to a significant revenue shortfall, as the mine would miss out on around 48 million euros in income over the eight months of repair work.
Looking ahead, the company plans to diversify its income streams, with plans to open various sectors of the mine to the market, including construction and HTZ (personal protective equipment) production. Additionally, there are ongoing negotiations with Elektroprivreda Crne Gore (EPCG) to sign a new four-year coal supply agreement.
Laković also discussed the importance of transforming the coal mine to adapt to the green transition and to create more independent companies within the organization. He pointed out that Montenegro’s move towards phasing out TE Pljevlja requires careful planning, as the coal mine and the power plant have contributed significantly to the country’s energy production.
Regarding environmental concerns, Laković stressed the need for the relocation of the Ćehotina Riverbed, which has been delayed for over five years. Failure to complete this project by the end of November 2025 could result in the country running out of coal.
In addition, Laković highlighted the lack of heating infrastructure in Pljevlja, which exacerbates pollution during the winter months. He called for the government to implement a district heating project to address this environmental issue and support the local community.
Laković concluded by stressing the need for the government to recognize the importance of Pljevlja and its contribution to Montenegro, urging action to address its long-standing economic challenges.
