Montenegro’s government has greenlit a project aimed at boosting energy efficiency in households, allocating €8.8 million for the endeavor, with a significant portion earmarked for Pljevlja, amounting to €2.8 million.
This initiative offers direct subsidies to citizens for adopting modern technologies and solutions in their homes, ultimately leading to reduced energy consumption and household expenses. The move underscores the pivotal role of energy efficiency in conserving resources and safeguarding the environment.
Minister of Energy and Mining, Saša Mujović, stressed the importance of optimizing energy usage, highlighting its potential to lower monthly costs. Additionally, the Electric Power Company of Montenegro will contribute through the Solar North project, pending approval by the board of directors. Furthermore, citizens will have the option to pay for solar panels over 85 monthly installments, an extension from the previous 70 under the Solar 5000+ project.
Beyond subsidizing modern technologies, the program holds particular significance in addressing environmental challenges, notably in regions like the north, where coal and wood are commonly used for heating during winter.
Collaborating with the Municipality of Pljevlja, the program defines activities aimed at enhancing energy efficiency in households and reducing coal usage for heating, thus contributing to environmental improvement and public health. Mujović underscored the government’s commitment to the well-being of Montenegrin citizens.
The program offers substantial benefits to citizens and local communities, providing subsidies for installing thermal insulation, efficient windows, modern heating/cooling systems, and solar systems for hot water and electricity production.
Initiated as part of a support package to overcome the energy crisis, granted by the European Commission to Montenegro, the program’s financial framework amounts to €8.8 million, including contributions from various sources.
After completing the necessary procedures for partnering contractors, the Environmental Fund will issue a call for citizens to participate in the program, with timely notifications provided. The Environmental Fund, with technical support from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), will oversee the implementation of the program.