The shutdown of the thermal power plant in Pljevlja, the largest polluter in Montenegro, is increasingly becoming a necessary step towards the energy transition and the protection of public health. In this process, wind farms represent one of the most important answers to the question – how to ensure clean and secure energy without fossil fuels?
Montenegro, with its natural potential, has ideal conditions for generating wind energy, and the benefits can be manifold – for local communities, municipalities, and the country as a whole.
Closure of the Pljevlja TPP: An urgent necessity
The Pljevlja thermal power plant, which still relies on coal, generates over 90 percent of CO₂ emissions from the energy sector. In addition to severely endangering public health, especially during the winter months, its continued operation is in direct conflict with the obligations Montenegro has undertaken under international climate agreements.
The transition to renewable energy sources, such as wind farms, is the only sustainable way forward.
CBAM – European pollution tax threatens Montenegro’s economy
Starting in 2026, the European Union will introduce the CBAM mechanism (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) – a carbon tax on imports from countries that do not have effective measures in place for reducing CO₂ emissions. For Montenegro, which exports a significant portion of its electricity and other goods to the EU market, this presents a serious challenge, particularly if the Pljevlja thermal power plant continues to operate.
Products generated using “dirty” energy (from coal) will become more expensive and less competitive, and the burden will ultimately fall on domestic companies, exporters, and – citizens. Electricity price hikes, rising commodity costs, and a loss of investment will be inevitable unless Montenegro aligns itself with European decarbonization standards.
Therefore, the urgent closure of the Pljevlja TPP and the development of wind farms, solar power plants, and especially large hydropower plants as replacements are not only an ecological imperative, but also an economic prerequisite for the survival of Montenegro’s economy within European integration. Each month lost increases the risk that the cost of this European pollution tax will fall directly on the shoulders of its citizens. At the same time, it must not be forgotten that the energy transition must be just, and that employees in thermal energy companies must be provided with alternative employment and secure livelihoods.
Government support and a key step forward
The Government of Montenegro has recognized the significance of investing in wind energy as part of a broader green transition strategy. In recent years, multiple urban-planning and technical conditions have been issued for the construction of new wind farms, representing a concrete and meaningful step toward developing a modern energy infrastructure.
With this initiative, the Government is clearly signaling that Montenegro both aspires and is prepared to become part of the European energy network, while relying on its domestic renewable resources.
Shared responsibility – local support is crucial
While institutional support is essential, the development of wind farms cannot be sustainably achieved without the support of local communities, municipal authorities, and the non-governmental sector. Transparent communication, respect for local needs, and investments in community development are key to building trust.
Many municipalities have already expressed openness to cooperation, and there is an increasing number of successful examples where investors, NGOs, and citizens sit at the same table – united in the interest of progress.
European experience: Wind as part of everyday life
Wind farms have been built across the European Union for decades, including in proximity to populated areas and even within national parks – with comprehensive environmental assessments and full respect for ecological balance. The experiences of countries such as Germany, Spain, Denmark, and Croatia demonstrate that such projects are not only viable but also desirable.
As an EU candidate country, Montenegro has the opportunity to adopt these models and avoid the transitional missteps that others have already encountered.
Benefits for local communities
Investments in wind farms bring a range of direct benefits to the municipalities and villages where they are built:
- New jobs during the construction, maintenance, and monitoring phases;
- Investments in local infrastructure, including roads, grid systems, and communications;
- Revenue from land leasing and taxes, which flows directly into municipal budgets and is used for schools, health centers, water supply systems, and other projects important to the local community.
For example, the municipality of Nikšić has already experienced positive effects from the “Krnovo” wind farm, and similar outcomes are expected in Šavnik, Pljevlja, Kolašin, and along the coast.
National interest – energy independence
Electricity imports during the winter months cost Montenegro millions of euros. The development of domestic renewable sources, particularly wind, reduces this dependency and guarantees a more stable energy system. At the same time, any surplus green energy can be exported, strengthening both the economy and the country’s position in the regional energy market.
Montenegro as a green destination
By developing wind parks, Montenegro positions itself as a responsible, modern, and sustainable country – increasingly valued by foreign investors, tourists, and international partners. Wind farms are progressively seen not as threats to nature, but as symbols of progress that help protect it.
Conclusion: It is time for a tailwind of change
Montenegro has a remarkable opportunity – to combine energy security, environmental responsibility, and local development. Wind farms are not merely a solution, but a chance to significantly improve the quality of life for all citizens in the long term. Shutting down the Pljevlja thermal power plant must be a priority, while the wind – a highly valuable ally on that journey.
As highlighted by the Ministry of Energy and Mining, led by the Minister Admir Šahmanović, Montenegro currently boasts four of its most promising wind parks. The company “Permonte” LLC, based in Podgorica and authorized by the Ministry to conduct wind measurements, has spent years studying Montenegro’s natural potential and has confirmed the enormous viability of the Bijela, Sinjajevina I, Sinjajevina II, and Korita wind park sites. According to projections, these represent the most promising projects in the near future and will receive support from the competent ministry of the Government of Montenegro. Additionally, renowned global investors are already showing interest in participating in these projects. In this context, the Bijela wind park has been taken over by “Alcazar Energy,” recognized as one of the leading investor companies in wind energy potential.