The Ministry of Energy and Mining of Montenegro and Japanese company JERA have signed a memorandum of cooperation in the development of projects for a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal and gas power plant.
The memorandum was signed at the Gastech 2025 conference in Italy by Minister of Energy and Mining Admir Šahmanović and Steve Winn, chief global strategist of JERA. They agreed to explore the possibilities for developing a project of an LNG terminal and associated gas power plant in Montenegro, according to the Ministry of Energy and Mining.
Within the strategic partnership, the government will use JERA’s extensive global experience to enhance its national energy mix, strengthen supply security, support decarbonization goals, and position Montenegro as an important energy hub in the Western Balkans.
The Japanese company and the ministry will conduct a feasibility study for the project
They will carry out a comprehensive feasibility study, covering the technical, commercial, and financial viability of the proposed LNG terminal and associated gas power plant, including an analysis of multiple potential locations.
According to the ministry’s press release, the study will provide detailed data on the cost-effectiveness and future expansion in the use of LNG in Montenegro, making a solid ground for strategic decisions beneficial to the country’s energy security and sustainable development.
Of note, in May 2023 Montenegro signed a cooperation memorandum on the planned LNG terminal and gas power plant with companies Enerflex Energy Systems and Wethington Energy Innovation, based in the United States. The European Union has also expressed its interest in the project.
Šahmanović: The study will provide data on the profitability of developing LNG in the country
Minister Admir Šahmanović said JERA is a renowned and credible global player in the areas of energy and LNG.
In his words, Japan is recognized for innovation and advanced technologies, and the cooperation will give Montenegro access to knowledge and experience necessary for the further development of its energy sector.
“The planned feasibility study will provide us with concrete data on potential locations and the profitability of developing liquefied natural gas in Montenegro, creating the basis for making strategic decisions in the interest of our country’s energy security and sustainable development,” Šahmanović underlined.
Winn: JERA is an ideal partner to support Montenegro in achieving its strategic energy goals
Steve Winn, JERA’s chief global strategist, said its extensive experience in LNG infrastructure and proven results in implementing complex international energy projects make it an ideal partner to support Montenegro in reaching its strategic energy objectives.
“We look forward to supporting Montenegro’s vision of strengthening energy security and decarbonization through practical and economically viable solutions,” he stressed.