Montenegro adopts key energy and climate reforms to advance EU alignment

Montenegro has adopted two major strategic documents that government officials say mark a decisive step forward in aligning the country with EU energy and climate policies. The National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) and the Law on Cross-Border Exchange of Electricity and Gas were approved at the government session held on December 10.

Energy Minister Admir Šahmanović said the two documents were long overdue and essential for meeting Montenegro’s European obligations.

“Today we adopted the National Energy and Climate Plan, an umbrella strategy that clearly defines where Montenegro should be in 2030: 55% less emissions, at least 50% renewable energy sources and strong progress in energy efficiency. This is a plan that enables new investments, new renewable energy power plants, modern network infrastructure and a safe transition for Pljevlja [thermal power plant],” he said.

The second document, the Law on Cross-Border Exchange of Electricity and Gas, is described by the minister as one of the most important pieces of energy legislation in this government’s mandate.

 “This law opens the door to the single European market, directly affects the closure of Chapter 15 and gives full meaning to the connection with Italy and the EU market. This means greater security of supply, better competition, more stable prices and a better position of our economy,” Šahmanović added.

He noted that the latest European Commission report confirmed progress, and that the government’s adoption of the two documents reinforces that assessment. “These are the foundations of a more energy secure, modern and European Montenegro and we have reason to be satisfied with the progress we have achieved,” he said.

The NECP, adopted for the first time in Montenegro, integrates energy, climate and development policies into a single framework and sets measurable goals for the country’s long-term energy transition. Its implementation is expected to accelerate renewable energy development, modernise electricity infrastructure, improve energy efficiency and strengthen management of emissions and climate risks.

The new law on cross-border energy exchange represents the most comprehensive reform of Montenegro’s energy legislation in a decade, moving the country closer to the EU’s market, technical and safety standards.

It paves the way for participation in the European single energy market, strengthens supply security and supports the creation of a more competitive environment for investors.

Together, the two documents form one of the most significant energy reform packages in recent years, fully aligned with EU strategic priorities. The government said it will continue implementing energy and climate reforms with the goal of bringing Montenegro closer to EU membership and ensuring a more secure and sustainable energy future.