Electric Power Industry of Montenegro (EPCG) and the French company EDF are committed to strengthening cooperation in the energy sector, particularly in the development of hydroelectric projects that will play a key role in enhancing Montenegro’s energy security and supporting the country’s green energy transition.
Current and future energy projects, with an emphasis on the development of hydroelectric systems in Montenegro, were the main topics discussed by representatives of EPCG and EDF, with whom the Montenegrin company signed a Memorandum of Understanding in mid-2023.
“Cooperation with the renowned French partner primarily relates to the joint implementation of the construction of the Kruševo Hydroelectric Power Plant (HE), which is of exceptional importance for Montenegro’s energy sector,” EPCG announced.
The Kruševo Hydroelectric Power Plant project, with an installed capacity of 82 megawatts (MW) and an estimated annual production of 170 gigawatt-hours (GWh), represents a strategic investment that will strengthen Montenegro’s energy system. Based on the 2023 Study of the Hydroenergetic Potential of the Piva River, HE Kruševo has been recognized as the optimal solution for the valorization of water resources in an upstream location entirely within Montenegro’s territory,” the statement further adds.
Both sides are satisfied with the progress made so far on this project, where, in late November of the previous year, a contract was signed with the renowned Institute for Water Management “Jaroslav Černi” from Belgrade for the development of the project and the execution of detailed geological works.
The need for the formation of a Coordination Body was emphasized, consisting of representatives from the Montenegrin Government, relevant ministries, EPCG, and EDF, which would monitor the progress of the project and ensure efficient coordination among all involved parties.
“One of the key topics of the meeting was also the exchange of experiences in the development and implementation of battery energy storage systems, which both companies are working on. Once implemented, these systems will create the conditions for energy storage, balancing the grid, and significantly contribute to the better utilization of energy from renewable sources,” EPCG stated.
Additionally, EPCG representatives informed their French counterparts about the Ministry of Energy’s plan to conduct a study on Montenegro’s water potential, which would serve as a basis for the planned construction of future hydroelectric plants.
The interlocutors highlighted the positive trend in the energy sector and discussed how the merger of EDF and EDF Renewable will simplify the organization and contribute to the more efficient implementation of projects.
