In light of the recent information about the issues in the company Solar Gradnja that have been presented to the public, I express serious concern for the further development of renewable energy production in Montenegro, particularly solar energy. It is disheartening that despite the enormous potential Montenegro has for solar energy production, the share of electricity generated from this source is only around 1%.
By not utilizing this potential, Montenegro continues to rely on coal and the operation of the Pljevlja thermal power plant, contributing to further air pollution and impeding the fulfillment of the commitments outlined in the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans and other EU goals in this field.
The government of Montenegro needs to find a simple and efficient way to provide incentives to citizens for installing solar panels on the rooftops of households, buildings, and businesses. These incentives should not be subjected to party or personal interests of any group or individual but should prioritize the interests of citizens and the environment of this country.
The Solari 3000+ project (aimed at households) and 500+ project (aimed at commercial buildings) initiated by Montenegro’s Electric Power Company could have been a catalyst for the development of solar energy production by providing incentives to citizens and households. Irresponsible management should not be a hindrance to projects that have the potential to be realized in the best interest of citizens and nature.
It is important to remind that Montenegro has exceptional natural conditions for utilizing solar energy and is listed among the countries with the highest solar potential in Southeast Europe, with over 2000 sunny hours per year for most parts of the country. This potential is significant in the coastal region and even in the northern parts of the country. In Kolašin, the sun shines for an average of around 2,474 hours per year, while in most coastal areas, it exceeds 2,500 hours per year. Considering this, the fact that the share of electricity production from solar energy is only around 1% is truly disheartening.