The Ministry of Energy and Mining has played a pivotal role in bolstering Montenegro’s economy with firm and specific actions, according to statements from the government department.
They announced that after reaching an agreement on compensation payments to the Municipality of Nikšić for submerged land related to Lake Bileća, Minister of Energy and Mining Saša Mujović will meet with Luka Petrović, the director of Elektroprivreda Republike Srpske (the power utility of Republika Srpska), in Podgorica on Monday.
The meeting aims to address outstanding debts accumulated over the past 30 years, during which Nikšić Municipality did not receive income from this source, and to outline the timeline and methods of payment.
“The issue of Lake Bileća has been unresolved for decades and presents a complex challenge. Mujović intends to resolve all contentious issues gradually, within Montenegro’s best interests and in accordance with national laws and international practices,” the Ministry stated.
In addition to the Lake Bileća issue, Mujović is collaborating with Minister of Labor and Social Welfare Naida Nišić to find an optimal solution for another inherited problem involving former employees of the Bauxite Mine. These employees have blocked the mine entrance due to discrepancies in their work records and outstanding debts, thereby disrupting the operations of three solvent Montenegrin companies.
The Ministry emphasized Mujović’s proactive efforts to ensure a sustainable future for the Nikšić Ironworks. They anticipate a high-level delegation from Duferco, a renowned company, arriving on Thursday for discussions with Prime Minister Milojko Spajić.
“The focus will be on securing the future of Ironworks employees and exploring opportunities for new operations and job creation,” the Ministry highlighted.
Highlighting the international dimension of their efforts, the Ministry pointed out that Mujović’s initiatives have yielded results, including a letter of intent from NTE Energy, a Norwegian company specializing in renewable energy production in northern Norway.
NTE Energy manages 19 fully owned hydroelectric power plants and several partially owned power plants, contributing a total production of 4,100 GWh.
NTE Energy’s intention is to invest in renewable energy sources in Montenegro to stimulate economic growth and position the country as a responsible global player in the transition to clean energy.
“Their projects focus on harnessing the potential of water, wind, and solar energy, adhering to rigorous environmental standards and fostering knowledge exchange between Norway and Montenegro,” the Ministry affirmed.
“In conclusion, the Ministry of Energy and Mining remains steadfast in its commitment to Montenegro’s prosperity, endeavoring to create an environment conducive to economic empowerment for its citizens,” the statement concluded.
