A coalition of over 200 international scientists, legal experts, energy specialists, and environmentalists, along with more than 20 national NGOs, has called on the Montenegrin government to immediately halt plans for the Komarnica hydropower plant project in the Komarnica canyon, announced the Montenegrin Society of Ecologists and EuroNatur.
In an open letter to national authorities, the signatories demand the cancellation of the controversial project, citing irreversible environmental damage, political interference, and violations of legal obligations.
Despite widespread expert and ecological concerns, the environmental impact assessment (EIA) for the Komarnica hydropower project has been marked by serious irregularities. After an 855-day review period, the assessment report was resubmitted in February 2025 with significant delays and persistent deficiencies. Civil society insists the report must be fully rejected and the project denied ecological approval.
The Montenegrin Environmental Protection Agency has yet to make an official decision. The NGOs express concern that political pressure from project investors may undermine transparency and scientific integrity, raising serious questions about accountability and governance.
Andrijana Mićanović, Secretary General of the Montenegrin Society of Ecologists, emphasized that approval of the project would not only destroy a national treasure but also further erode public trust in the ecological decision-making process.
Despite expert opposition and civil society concerns, the Montenegrin government appears determined to proceed. No comprehensive analysis of costs, benefits, energy efficiency, or public interest has been published.
Independent assessments reveal that construction costs have nearly doubled since 2012, now reaching €343 million, while the project would supply less than 2% of Montenegro’s total energy needs.
Experts highlight sustainable alternatives such as hybrid solar and wind energy systems that offer better returns without sacrificing ecosystems.
This call to halt Komarnica comes amid growing civil society worries over recent political moves facilitating large-scale infrastructure projects by international actors that bypass environmental legal standards.
The European Commission has also voiced serious concerns over the Montenegrin parliament’s approval for developing the 12-kilometer-long Velika beach, a pristine natural area.
As Montenegro progresses toward EU membership, upholding environmental laws, ensuring transparent processes, and protecting natural heritage remain imperative, stressed Amelie Huber, freshwater projects manager at EuroNatur.
