Ivan Burzanović, CEO and co-owner of „BB Solar“ LLC
In this interview with Ivan Burzanović, CEO of “BB Solar”, we learn how the company built a recognizable reputation in the field of sustainable energy from humble beginnings, how they balance various business activities, and what plans they have for the future. Burzanović discusses the key challenges and successes of the company, as well as his vision for the further development of renewable energy sources in Montenegro.
Mr. Burzanović, BB Solar was founded with a clear “green mission”. How would you describe the company’s journey from its founding to becoming a recognized leader in the field of energy efficiency in Montenegro today?
BB Solar has been operating in the Montenegrin market for almost 14 years. It was founded in 2011 with a clear goal of basing its business on the design, equipment supply, and execution of electromechanical works on projects in the field of electricity production from renewable sources, contributing to the growth of renewables in the energy mix. We recognized Montenegro’s favorable climate factors, including 240 sunny days annually, significant wind potential in various areas such as the coast and the northern regions, and available hydropower potential, as an opportunity to focus the company’s future business on building electricity production facilities. These include projects for clients as well as our own facilities that eliminate the use of fossil fuels, ensure security in electricity supply, and improve energy efficiency on both a global and local level.
I can confidently say that BB Solar is a pioneer in the field of energy efficiency, as we were the ones to implement, equip, commission, and maintain the first “green” projects in accordance with contractual obligations. Over time, we expanded our operations into other areas of energy due to the significant market demands in Montenegro, driven by the rapid expansion of numerous commercial, residential, and infrastructure projects. This growth, which peaked over the last 15 years, allowed not only international contractors but also local companies with the necessary technical and personnel capacities to participate in these developments.
Today, after 14 years, our extensive reference list confirms that there is no energy project in the Montenegrin market that we cannot handle with quality or step back from, whether it involves constructing electrical infrastructure for highways, the construction of hydroelectric power plant, or designing and equipping complete energy supply systems owned by Montenegro’s electricity distribution network. We have also been involved in other complex engineering projects. All the projects we participated in— whether as an investor, main contractor, or subcontractor—were equipped with the latest generation of energy-efficient products that meet all the standards and professional rules governing this field of construction.
Throughout our operations, we have established numerous partnerships with companies from around the world and the region that specialize in the production of various categories of equipment and materials used in the construction of all the aforementioned projects. Five years ago, we decided to enhance our business by adding wholesale activities for electrical equipment. Additionally, two years ago, the company expanded its operations into construction, specifically the development of residential and commercial buildings.
Your first solar power plant at the UN Eco Building was a pioneering step in Montenegro. What significance did this project have for positioning BB Solar in the renewable energy market?
Our first solar power plant at the United Nations Eco Building is also the first of its kind in Montenegro. For many years after its completion, this solar power plant remained the only representative project in the country, serving as an excellent motivator for us to grow in the direction we have achieved through persistent, dedicated, and committed work. Of course, the BB Solar team also built dozens of smaller off-grid solar systems in remote and inaccessible locations outside urban areas of Montenegro. These systems enabled residents, whose properties are not connected to the main electricity distribution network, to independently produce electricity for their basic needs. This means that, in pursuing our mission, we did not solely focus on participating in the construction of large energy facilities. By addressing the needs of all target consumer groups, we gained comprehensive insight into the energy market, which opened up numerous new opportunities to expand our offerings.
How does BB Solar balance its primary vision of increasing energy efficiency with its expanded scope of activities in construction and other areas of energy?
We have managed to maintain a balance between all our activities, including the additional services we have introduced, thanks to an established organizational structure within the company based on the principles of expertise, experience, and the knowledge of our staff, as well as constant investment in their development. With great dedication to each individual project, the quality of our services and deliveries, coupled with our responsibility and adherence to agreed deadlines, has enabled us to maintain this favorable balance with minimal deviations.
As a company working on over 400 projects, how do you ensure a high level of quality, on-time delivery, and client satisfaction across all segments of your business?
Part of the answer can be found in the previous question, but I am happy to reiterate that success in any business or company requires a strong team and a healthy work environment. As the company has developed, most employees have achieved both personal and professional growth, which has contributed to a continuous increase in the quality of fulfilling contractual obligations. Even during numerous crises that have occurred one after another over the past 15 years, the quality for which we are recognized has never been jeopardized, not even due to “force majeure” circumstances. We also maintain a policy of rejuvenating our workforce, providing opportunities for young people to gain professional training and experience in an organized environment, eventually becoming integral members of our team.
Montenegrin market is increasingly recognizing the importance of sustainable development. How do you see Montenegro’s potential for further development of renewable energy systems, and what role will your company play in this process?
Numerous studies conducted over the past few decades have concluded that Montenegro has incredible renewable energy potential that remains underutilized. Fortunately, in recent years, this segment of the energy sector has experienced a revival. After a long period of stagnation in the construction of “green” facilities, we are now seeing renewed investment, both from the state and from European institutions and private companies, which benefits the economy and citizens alike. Public awareness of producing and using self-generated energy from renewable sources has significantly improved in recent years. An increasing number of clients are interested in investing in energy systems, with solar systems being the most in demand.
BB Solar will play an active role in this process through several established channels that we have developed over the years. Despite minimal market demands and administratively and technically restrictive conditions in the past, our team worked diligently to lay a solid foundation for the forthcoming expansion of this energy sector. We have planned specific investments in constructing our own energy-efficient facilities, offering services to interested clients through “turnkey” and “design and build” systems, participating in public procurement procedures, and engaging in wholesale activities. This includes supplying the necessary equipment from our portfolio of partners, who are renowned manufacturers of systems for solar, hydro, and wind power plants.