Montenegro is preparing to extend the development schedule for the 112 MW Sinjajevina I wind farm, while state-controlled transmission operator Crnogorski elektroprenosni sistem (CGES) is preparing for an estimated €40 million transaction to acquire infrastructure intended to connect the project and related renewable capacity.
The planned contractual annex would provide the investor with additional time to complete project design and secure a construction permit following delays in the permitting process. Under the revised timetable, the first development phase would last 36 months, while construction could continue for up to 60 months after the construction permit is issued.
Sinjajevina I is planned near Kolašin and would comprise 17 wind turbines with total installed capacity of approximately 112 MW. Current transmission-system planning indicates possible commercial operation around 2030, placing the project among Montenegro’s larger wind developments expected to come online later this decade.
CGES to acquire connection infrastructure
The connection infrastructure is expected to be developed initially for the Sinjajevina projects and subsequently transferred to CGES under Montenegro’s energy framework. The value of the assets has been estimated at around €40 million. Because of the size of the transaction, approval from CGES shareholders is required. An extraordinary shareholders’ meeting is scheduled, while the relevant connection agreements are expected to move toward signing. The connection arrangement is part of the framework needed for the project to progress toward financing and construction.
Development timetable extended
The revised schedule reflects delays affecting the project’s development. Spatial planning, environmental approvals, land arrangements, technical studies and grid documentation can each affect the timing of large renewable-energy projects. Extending the initial development phase to 36 months reflects the fact that the previous timetable could no longer be maintained.
For Sinjajevina I, subsequent milestones include completion of the connection agreement, obtaining the construction permit, securing financing and procuring the wind turbines. Montenegro has a substantial pipeline of proposed wind and solar projects, while projects still have to secure permits, grid-connection capacity and financing before reaching commercial operation.
Role in renewable generation
Sinjajevina I remains part of Montenegro’s plans to expand renewable generation ahead of the eventual decline of the Pljevlja coal plant, which will increase the need for replacement generation capacity. The planned 112 MW of wind capacity would add to the country’s renewable generation portfolio. Wind generation can complement Montenegro’s large hydropower fleet, while rising variable renewable production will also require additional storage and balancing resources.
The planned CGES transaction and connection agreements are therefore key milestones for the project as it moves through permitting, financing and preparation for construction.
