February 12, 2026

by AEA in News

Montenegro Approves EIA for 118.8 MW Bijela Wind Farm and 110 kV Line

Montenegro’s Environmental Protection Agency has approved the environmental impact assessment (EIA) study for the construction of the Bijela wind farm, including a 110 kV transmission line. The project is planned at 118.8 MW, with Alcazar Energy Partners listed as the investor.

The Bijela wind project is located near the town of Šavnik in northern Montenegro. It envisages 17 wind turbines installed on hilly terrain across a mountain plateau, with total capacity reaching 118.8 MW.

Study sets mitigation measures for construction and operation

The approved EIA outlines protection and mitigation measures for environmental impacts that could arise during both construction and operation of the wind farm and the associated transmission line. The measures cover impacts on air quality, soil, and biodiversity, as well as noise and visual effects.

Grid and offtake steps already underway

Alcazar Energy signed a grid connection agreement with Montenegro’s transmission system operator CGES in September 2024. The company took over the Bijela project a year earlier, with total investment in the wind farm valued at $200 million.

On the commercial side, Alcazar Energy signed a memorandum of understanding in January 2025 with Montenegro’s state power utility Elektroprivreda Crne Gore (EPCG), launching negotiations on a power purchase agreement (PPA) for electricity from the Bijela project.

Wider expansion plans across the Western Balkans

In October 2025, Alcazar Energy said it would increase its investment in Montenegro from $200 million to $500 million. The plan was presented at the EU–Montenegro Investment Conference by the company’s Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Daniel Calderon.

Alcazar Energy’s Western Balkans portfolio also includes projects in North Macedonia and Serbia. In North Macedonia, the company is building what it describes as the region’s largest wind farm, a 400 MW project backed by a $500 million investment. In Serbia, Alcazar Energy is developing the 200 MW Celzijus 1 wind farm east of Belgrade.

January 9, 2026

by AEA in News

Montenegro’s TSO CGES to invest EUR 200 million

Montenegrin transmission system operator Crnogorski Elektroprenosni Sistem plans to invest EUR 200 million over the next five years, according to Ranko Redžić, manager of the company’s national dispatching center.

CGES is constantly improving and modernizing the system, as well as training employees, MINA reported.

According to Ranko Redžić, this yields results. One of them is a very low transmission system loss rate, which ranges from 1.6% to 1.7%, in line with the most efficient European systems, he added.

The most significant capital projects the company completed last year include the reconstruction of the Pljevlja 1 substation and the construction of the 150-kilometer Lastva-Pljevlja transmission line, which is expected to become operational soon.

The power line completes a 400 kV ring that will significantly improve the operational security of both the Montenegrin and neighboring transmission systems, Redžić stressed.

The completion of two 110 kV transmission lines in the north – Brezna-Žabljak and Žabljak-Pljevlja – is also planned

The completion of the project also creates conditions for connecting a significant number of renewable energy power plants, he explained.

Among the major projects is the upgrade of Lastva substation, which resolves the problem of excessively high voltages in the Montenegrin system. The issue is evident throughout the region.

The upgraded substation is expected to be put into operation by the end of January.

Redžić estimated that the total value of investments over the next five years will exceed EUR 200 million.

Among the upcoming projects, there is the completion of two 110 kV transmission lines in the north – Brezna-Žabljak and Žabljak-Pljevlja. CGES also intends to install the 400 kV Brezna substation, which would also enable the connection of significant renewable energy capacity.

The 400 kV link with Serbia would complete the Trans-Balkan Corridor

The reconstruction of the 220 kV transmission line from Bosnia and Herzegovina through Montenegro to Albania is also planned, along with the reconstruction of the substation at the Perućica hydropower plant and the replacement of transformers at Pljevlja 2 substation.

The upcoming construction of a 400 kV interconnection with Serbia, completing the Trans-Balkan Corridor, would create the conditions for a second line of the submarine cable between Montenegro and Italy, Redžić underscored.

The onshore transmission line would allow the installation of a number of new substations, enabling the connection of additional consumers and renewable electricity plants to the distribution network.

Redžić stressed that the expected date for coupling the Montenegrin and Italian electricity markets is the beginning of 2028.

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January 8, 2026

by AEA in News

Montenegro’s TSO CGES to invest EUR 200 million

Montenegrin transmission system operator Crnogorski Elektroprenosni Sistem plans to invest EUR 200 million over the next five years, according to Ranko Redžić, manager of the company’s national dispatching center.

CGES is constantly improving and modernizing the system, as well as training employees, MINA reported.

According to Ranko Redžić, this yields results. One of them is a very low transmission system loss rate, which ranges from 1.6% to 1.7%, in line with the most efficient European systems, he added.

The power line completes a 400 kV ring that will significantly improve the operational security of both the Montenegrin and neighboring transmission systems, Redžić stressed.

The completion of two 110 kV transmission lines in the north – Brezna-Žabljak and Žabljak-Pljevlja – is also planned

The completion of the project also creates conditions for connecting a significant number of renewable energy power plants, he explained.

Among the major projects is the upgrade of Lastva substation, which resolves the problem of excessively high voltages in the Montenegrin system. The issue is evident throughout the region.

The upgraded substation is expected to be put into operation by the end of January.

Redžić estimated that the total value of investments over the next five years will exceed EUR 200 million.

The 400 kV link with Serbia would complete the Trans-Balkan Corridor

Redžić stressed that the expected date for coupling the Montenegrin and Italian electricity markets is the beginning of 2028.

Post Views:44

December 19, 2025

by AEA in News

New round of talks between Montenegro and Masdar on strategic partnership

Representatives of the Government of Montenegro and Masdar discussed potential joint projects in the energy sector. The focus of the meeting was on solar energy, energy storage, and hydropower.

Minister of Energy and Mining of Montenegro Admir Šahmanović and the Minister of Public Works Majda Adžović met today at Villa Gorica in Montenegro’s capital Podgorica with Masdar CEO Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi and his team.

It was the second meeting between Al Ramahi and Šahmanović in a short period. They met in early September.

The discussions now continued on top priority projects for the Government of Montenegro, ones that could be of mutual interest, according to the Ministry of Energy and Mining.

Priority should be given to projects that are the most technically advanced

Discussions will be intensified to define collaboration models, potential investments, and the selection of first projects to be implemented, the update reads.

Solar projects, including for floating solar power plants, alongside battery energy storage systems (BESS) and hydropower plants, have been identified as segments of special interest. These are also the areas where Masdar has significant engineering and technical experience, the ministry said.

montenegro masdar sahmanovic — Al Ramahi and Šahmanović (photo: Government of Montenegro/Saša Matić)

The two sides agreed to focus on projects that are the most technically advanced, environmentally sustainable, and aligned with the development of the power grid, to ensure their sustainable and efficient implementation.

Šahmanović: Montenegro’s strategic and long-term goal is to establish itself as a reliable and competitive player in the European energy market

Minister Šahmanović pointed out that the country’s strategic and long-term goal is to establish itself as a reliable and competitive player in the European energy market. He underscored that the development of energy infrastructure and renewable energy sources are among the government’s key priorities.

Officials participating in the meeting praised the planned construction of a second submarine cable line with Italy. It is an extremely wise and strategic investment that ensures Montenegro a stronger and more stable position in the European electricity market, they added.
Montenegro’s vision as an energy hub is fully aligned with the government’s development plans, Šahmanović stressed.

Minister of Public Works Majda Adžović highlighted the extensive experience of the United Arab Emirates in energy and infrastructure development in the public sector. It is of great importance for Montenegro’s activities in increasing renewable energy capacities, she added.

Masdar’s expert teams will continue technical talks with the management of EPCG and CGES

Masdar’s representatives have expressed readiness to continue technical discussions with the management of power utility Elektroprivreda Crne Gore (EPCG) and transmission system operator (TSO) Crnogorski Elektroprenosni Sistem (CGES).

The company’s expert teams will aim to identify priority and mature projects for joint implementation, the ministry said.

EPCG’s CEO Zdravko Dragaš and Ivan Mrvaljević, Executive Officer of EPCG’s Directorate for Development and Engineering, pointed out that the development of green energy is the company’s top priority.

A total of 200 MW in renewable energy projects are currently in development, they added.

Ivan Asanović, CEO of CGES, presented projects that are in the final stages of implementation.

Post Views:52

October 30, 2025

by AEA in News

Montenegro, Italy sign memorandum on electricity market coupling

A memorandum of understanding on Italy and Montenegro’s electricity market coupling was signed in Rome. It also paves the way for the installation of the second cable of the Monita interconnector, which runs under the Adriatic Sea.

Minister of Energy and Mining of Montenegro Admir Šahmanović (pictured middle) and Italian Minister of the Environment and Energy Security Gilberto Pichetto Fratin (left) pointed out that energy links mean a more secure future, more stable supply and more development possibilities. They signed a bilateral memorandum of understanding on electricity market coupling.

Montenegrin Prime Minister Milojko Spajić (right) attended the ceremony together with Minister of Public Works, Spatial Planning and State Property Majda Adžović. The agreement is opening a new chapter in cooperation between the two countries and further strengthens Montenegro’s position on the European energy map, the Ministry of Energy and Mining said.

Market coupling alongside strengthening interconnection with second cable

Montenegro and Italy are linked with the Monita electricity interconnector, laid below the Adriatic Sea. In the new phase of their cooperation, they intend to couple their electricity markets for a freer power flow and safer functioning of the system, the ministry’s announcement reads.

“With this agreement, Montenegro is confirming its status as a reliable partner and energy bridge between the region and Europe. After several years of stagnation, this is a bit step forward, as it enables us to initiate the continuation of the project and the construction of the second wire of the subsea cable toward Italy. It opens the possibilities for our green, clean energy to become a distinguished export product, which means new income for companies and greater competitiveness in the European market. Today we once again confirmed good neighborly relations with Italy and we are showing that Montenegro is, slowly but firmly, entering the European family through concrete projects and partnerships. This is a step that brings our citizens long-term energy security and new opportunities for development to our companies,” Šahmanović stated.

Trade at Montenegro’s wholesale electricity market is expected to triple

There are 29 companies from 13 countries participating in Montenegro’s electricity market. Since the day-ahead market was established at the Montenegrin Power Exchange (MEPX or Belen) in April 2023, some 900 GWh of electricity changed hands, while the entire volume, together with the long-term market, amounts to about 3 TWh, the statement adds.

The memorandum’s implementation will create the conditions for at least three times higher trading volume, clearer price signal for new investments and a direct contribution to improving the security of supply, the ministry claimed.

National transmission system operators (TSOs) Terna and CGES have commissioned the first part of the interconnection in 2019. The current plan is to double the capacity to 1.2 GW. Šahmanović recently said the second line should be installed by 2031.

The project is valued at EUR 500 million. A double cable enables a two-way exchange at the same time.

Post Views:117

October 9, 2025

by AEA in News

Montenegrin TSO CGES buying power transmission lines from its Serbian counterpart EMS

Serbian transmission system operator (TSO) Elektromreža Srbije (EMS) and Montenegrin TSO CGES agreed that each would become the owner of the parts of overhead transmission lines on its country’s territory, and signed a contract.

EMS and CGES signed a contract on the purchase of electricity infrastructure. The two state-owned TSOs said it is the confirmation of their many years of cooperation and of their joint commitment to the development of a stable and reliable regional electricity system.

The reason for such an arrangement is that maintenance and utilization of transmission lines on the other country’s territory is complex and demanding, both from the technical and legal perspectives, the announcement reads.

Contract was signed by CEOs Jelena Matejić, Ivan Asanović

CGES will become the owner of the parts of EMS’s interconnector power lines of 220 kV and 110 kV that are located in Montenegro, they said, without revealing the purchase sum.

CGES is taking over the parts of EMS’s interconnector power lines that are on the territory of Montenegro

The contract was signed by General Manager of EMS Jelena Matejić and Executive Director of CGES Ivan Asanović. The two companies explained that they have initiated the search for a sustainable solution for interconnector power lines of 220 kV from Pljevlja in Montenegro to Bajina Bašta in Serbia and from Pljevlja to Bistrica in Serbia, and the one from Pljevlja 1 to Potpeć in Serbia, of 110 kV, all owned by EMS, and for CGES’s internal overhead power line Mojkovac-Pljevlja of 220 kV, which has a section in neighboring Serbia.

Deal aimed at simplifying operations, greater legal clarity

They adopted a model under which each TSO is becoming the owner of transmission lines on the territory of its country. It is a principle enabling simpler management, more efficient maintenance and greater legal and operational clarity for transmission systems, the operators said.

“With this contract we are creating a more stable basis for a technically and legally regulated transmission system, additionally strengthening the reliability and safety of the electricity grid in the region,” Jelena Matejić stated.

The companies showed that they are able to solve complex issues jointly and in the interest of both countries and all users of the electricity system, according to CGES head Ivan Asanović.

Of note, EMS has a 15% share in CGES, while the Government of Montenegro controls 55.4%. Jelena Matejić is a member of the board of directors. Italian TSO Terna owns 22.1%.

Post Views:17

August 8, 2025

by AEA in News

Montenegro’s transmission system operator CGES boosts profit by 28.1%

Montenegro’s transmission system operator CGES achieved a net income of EUR 12.9 million in the first six months of this year. It is 28.1% more than in the same period of 2024 and on a 2.5% higher revenue.

The dedication to quality and operational efficiency is materializing in concrete results, and the outlook remains bright, the management of Montenegro’s electricity transmission system operator (TSO) said. In the semiannual financial report that it published on the website of the Montenegro Stock Exchange, Crnogorski elektroprenosni sistem (CGES) revealed that its total revenue came in at EUR 47.9 million or 2.5% more than in the first half of last year.

Expenditures grew 0.27% to EUR 33.3 million. The company achieved a net income, after tax, of EUR 12.9 million. It is a substantial, 28.1% rise against the result from the equivalent period of 2024.

CGES doesn’t expect that power price volatility and growth would significantly affect its financial stability

“The volatility and growth of electricity prices in the market that was caused by problems in the delivery of oil and gas in Europe, and later with the war in Ukraine, represent a risk affecting a potential increase in costs for the procurement of energy to cover allowed losses in the transmission system; however, without a more pronounced effect on the company’s financial stability throughout the current year. CGES has already launched certain activities to partly mitigate the impact of this risk,” the document said.

The government has a 55.4% stake in CGES. The next-biggest shareholder is Italy’s TSO Terna, which controls 22.1%, while Serbia’s TSO Elektromreža Srbije (EMS) holds 15%.

The Podgorica-based company had a EUR 24.8 million profit in 2024, after EUR 35.7 million the year before.

Of note, CGES signed a letter of intent in March with the two other state-owned electricity companies – power producer Elektroprivreda Crne Gore (EPCG) and CEDIS, the country’s distribution system operator (DSO) – on establishing strategic cooperation for the Consolidated Data Center (CDC) project.

Post Views:79

May 30, 2025

by AEA in News

Western Balkans power markets: hope for coupling with EU, concerns about CBAM

Energy Community contracting parties are doing their best to meet the challenging requirements and use the opportunity to couple their electricity markets with the European Union in Q4 2026 or Q1 2027. Apart from other benefits, coupling could represent a strong incentive for investment in renewables. However, the introduction of CBAM could be a step back for electricity markets, investments and energy transition in the region, according to representatives of transmission system operators, regulators, and power exchanges who spoke at Belgrade Energy Forum 2025.

The third Belgrade Energy Forum, BEF 2025, organized by Balkan Green Energy News, welcomed four hundred participants from more than 30 countries from the region, Europe, and beyond.

Participants in the panel called Integration of Western Balkans electricity markets into internal European market through market coupling were:

Anže Predovnik, ADEX Group, CEO,
Jasmina Trhulj, Energy Community Secretariat, Head of Electricity Unit,
Ivan Asanović, TSO Crnogorski Elektroprenosni Sistem (CGES), CEO,
Marko Bislimoski, Energy, Water Services and Municipal Waste Management Services Regulatory Commission of the Republic of North Macedonia (RKE or ERC), President,
Zoran Vujasinović, EU Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators (ACER), Policy Officer.

They discussed very hot topics including market coupling, the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), and blackouts.

Market coupling: The first go-live window scheduled for Q4 2026 or Q1 2027

Dejan Stojčevski and Jasmina Trhulj (photo: Balkan Green Energy News)

In his opening remarks, panel moderator Dejan Stojčevski, CTO of the SEEPEX power exchange, emphasized the importance of integrating the electricity markets of the Energy Community contracting parties (EnC CPs) with the EU internal electricity market as a key element in the energy transition process.

“Market coupling, which is a prerequisite for a successful energy transition, brings about greater transparency, increased competition, the establishment of a unified regional reference price, and stronger incentives for investment in renewable energy sources,” he stressed.

However, in his words, the integration is not without challenges. Countries in the region must address several issues, including the transposition of relevant regulations, the designation of nominated electricity market operators (NEMOs), and the operational connection process through the implementation of local projects, Stojčevski underlined.

Trhulj: The transposition of EIP enables accelerated electricity market integration into the single EU electricity market

The most important regulation is the Energy Integration Package (EIP). Jasmina Trhulj, Head of Electricity Unit of the Energy Community Secretariat, recalled that the transposition of EIP by the contracting parties enables their accelerated electricity market integration into the single EU electricity market before accession into the EU takes place.

To achieve that, EnC CPs have to adopt and implement the laws in a compliant manner, including extending ACER’s jurisdiction to the cross-border issues between EU member states and EnC CPs, she noted.

With regard to regional methodologies, ACER is competent to the extent that neighboring EU countries are involved, which is most often the case.

The preparation of the Market Coupling Operator Integration Plan is underway

Another important piece of the puzzle is the Market Coupling Operator Integration Plan (MCO IP), which will set guidelines and timelines for the implementation of the day-ahead and intraday market coupling of EnC CPs. Trhulj confirmed that the preparation is currently underway.

According to the draft MCO IP, the first go-live window is scheduled for Q4 2026 or potentially by Q1 2027, provided that the following prerequisites are met, she revealed.

The prerequisites are the transposition of the EIHP completed and its compliance verified; NEMO designated in a compliant manner; operational readiness of transmission system operators (TSOs) and NEMOs confirmed; and full contractual adherence completed.

“Provided that the legislation is transposed and its compliance verified and MCO IP approved by ACER, a NEMO may submit requests for accession to market coupling. This is followed by an accession process lasting up to 18 months,” Trhulj explained.

Serbia, Montenegro “locked and ready” for the first go-live window

Anže Predovnik and Zoran Vujasinović (photo: Balkan Green Energy News)

ADEX Group CEO Anže Predovnik shared Slovenia’s experience in various market coupling processes within the internal European electricity market, including different products such as day-ahead, intraday continuous, and intraday auction market coupling.

He particularly emphasized the importance of market coupling and its impact on liquidity, transparency, competition, and increased investments in renewable energy sources.

Predovnik presented HUPX’s integration into the ADEX Group, which was completed in late 2024, and highlighted the benefits ADEX brings to the market and its participants through the unification of the power exchanges of Slovenia, Serbia, and Hungary.

Enhanced transparency, the use of a unified trading and clearing technology, a single market operation, a harmonized market access process across the ADEX markets, alignment of rules, and improved client services are just some of the advantages offered by the formation of ADEX Group, he pointed out.

One immediate benefit already implemented is that market participants active in one ADEX market do not pay entry fees when accessing another market within the group.

Predovnik: Market participants active in one ADEX market don’t pay entry fees when accessing another market within the group

“Additionally, all resources within the group are contributing to the implementation of the local project for coupling the Serbian and Hungarian day-ahead markets, with the project expected to be completed at the first available slot, anticipated for Q4 2026 or Q1 2027,” Predovnik noted.

CEO of Montenegro’s TSO Crnogorski Elektroprenosni Sistem (CGES) Ivan Asanović also spoke about the market coupling project timeframe.

After compliance of the transposition of EIP is verified and provided that the necessary adaptations of the Day-ahead Operations Agreement (DAOA) and the Intraday Operations Agreement (IDOA) regarding the extension to the price zones of EnC CPs are adopted at the Market Coupling Steering Committee (MCSC) level, CGES and power exchange BELEN could sign these contracts, becoming non-operating parties in the MCSC, he revealed.

According to Asanović, obtaining the status in MCSC is a precondition for the submission of a request for change, and it is extremely important to carry it out in a timely manner, to complete the process, which lasts 18 months, until Q4 2026 or Q1 2027.

Of note, a week ago, North Macedonia’s Minister of Energy, Mining and Mineral Resources Sanja Božinovska said it is realistic to aim for coupling in the fourth quarter of 2026 or the first quarter of 2027.

CBAM and blackouts are looming

Anže Predovnik, Zoran Vujasinović and Ivan Asanović (photo: Balkan Green Energy News)

Apart from market coupling, the stakeholders in the region are also concerned about the developments regarding the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) as well as about blackouts.

Dejan Stojčevski (SEEPEX) sees the potential effect of CBAM on the electricity sector, starting on January 1, 2026, as a major issue.

The mechanism could pose a serious threat to the overall energy transition in the region, he added.

In addition, it is crucial to discuss system security and the root causes of the blackouts that recently occurred across Europe, Stojčevski pointed out.

“As there was no announcement that the application of CBAM will be postponed, we are operating under the assumption that it will apply to electricity as of January 1, 2026, given that the contracting parties will not be ready for market coupling by that date,” Jasmina Trhulj (Energy Community Secretariat) underlined.

Trhulj: There is a risk that certain stakeholders may shift their trading activities and renewable investments away from the region

In her words, it creates a number of risks to the functioning of the regional electricity market and the energy transition process that the secretariat has been raising on behalf of the contracting parties, electricity traders, power utilities, renewable energy developers, and other stakeholders.

She warned of a risk that certain stakeholders shift their trading activities and investments in renewables away from the region, thereby potentially undermining integration and decarbonization efforts.

Dejan Stojčevski, Jasmina Trhulj and Marko Bislimoski (photo: Balkan Green Energy News)

In addition, market participants are raising the issue of the considerable uncertainty regarding the exact technical implementation of CBAM for electricity – inherently unique within a group of goods, Trhulj recalled.

It is crucial for the countries in the region to speak openly with Brussels, said Marko Bislimoski, president of the Energy, Water Services and Municipal Waste Management Services Regulatory Commission of the Republic of North Macedonia. In addition, they need to come up with an action plan, together with the Energy Community Secretariat, defining the phases for the introduction of carbon pricing, in his view.

Bislimoski: We need to define the items for which we need financial assistance from the EU

“We need a serious approach and to say what we can do ourselves, and then immediately make it happen. At the same time, we need to define the items for which we will need financial assistance from the EU,” Bislimoski asserted.

The panelists agreed the region needs to present a single coordinated position on CBAM at an upcoming meeting on July 1 in Brussels.

Bislimoski recalled that North Macedonia recently adopted the new Law on Energy and added that bylaws would follow. The end goal is to provide security and stability in the transmission and distribution of electricity like in the EU, but also to lower the prices of electricity for consumers, he added.

Asanović: It is necessary to take urgent measures to improve coordination in the region

Regarding the issue of blackouts, Ivan Asanović (CGES) emphasized the importance of coordinating transmission capacities and maintenance plans for transmission lines across the wider Balkan region.

He recalled the challenging operational conditions experienced last winter, when exchanges planned along the Greece-Bulgaria-Romania-Hungary corridor were largely physically realized via the southwestern Balkans, leading to significant network stress. Such situations must be avoided through more comprehensive coordination, he warned.

It is necessary, in his words, to take urgent measures to improve coordination in the region to alleviate the current problems until the establishment of the mechanisms and structures prescribed in the CACM and SOGL regulations.

“These rules will fully harmonize the operation of the system in the region with the rest of Europe and significantly improve the security of functioning and create the necessary preconditions for connecting the markets of the WB6 countries with the single European market,” Asanović stressed.

Vujasinović (ACER): Full operational readiness of CCRs is not a prerequisite for market coupling

Zoran Vujasinović and Ivan Asanović

TSOs made a breakthrough in December. They agreed on a Joint Declaration on Regional Coordination. The declaration, facilitated by ENTSO-E, outlined a new comprehensive cooperation framework for the Western Balkans TSOs within South-East Europe.

Zoran Vujasinović, Policy Officer at the EU Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators (ACER), mentioned that in January the body submitted a request to the TSOs to propose the configuration of capacity calculation regions (CCRs), incorporating the bidding zone borders of EnC CPs within the framework of the EU CCR methodology.

The TSOs’ proposal is expected by the end of July, after which ACER will issue a decision within six months, he said.

The current TSO proposal envisions:

the inclusion of the southeastern bidding zone borders in the Balkans into the South East Europe (SEE) region, which already includes the borders between Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece.
the formation of a separate region in the northwestern part (covering the mutual borders of bidding zones of Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro, as well as their bidding zone borders with the EU), with a perspective of integration into the Central Europe region.
the Italy-Montenegro region and the Eastern Europe region (including Ukraine, Moldova, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania) to remain unchanged, as defined by the CACM Regulation of the Energy Community.

According to Vujasaninović, ACER’s position is that the entire region should, over time, transition to flow-based capacity calculation and allocation methodologies. However, the initial step will be participation in market coupling based on Net Transfer Capacity (NTC) values.

“It is important to note that full operational readiness of CCRs is not a prerequisite for market coupling. The coupling can proceed based on existing NTC calculation procedures, provided that regional operational security is not compromised at any time and that maximum coordination in capacity calculation is ensured,” Vujasinović stressed.

Post Views:46

April 17, 2025

by AEA in News

Montenegro’s EPCG, DSO, TSO to establish Consolidated Data Center

The three key companies in the electricity sector of Montenegro – Elektroprivreda Crne Gore (EPCG), distribution system operator (DSO) CEDIS, and transmission system operator (TSO) CGES – have signed a letter of intent to start strategic cooperation on the installation of the Consolidated Data Center (CDC).

The initiative for the construction of the Consolidated Data Center represents a significant step towards the digital transformation of the Montenegrin power system and the establishment of a modern information hub, according to EPCG, CEDIS, and CGES.

Within the partnership, the three companies are jointly invest resources and know-how to create a technologically advanced data management system and digital services. The Consolidated Data Center will be located in the Željezara Nikšić industrial complex.

CDC’s capacity could be used commercially for the needs of other institutions and businesses

Apart from CDC’s primary role, the modernization of the state-owned power companies, its capacity could offer services to other institutions and companies.

The signatories have already initiated the first step – the preparation of a feasibility study that will define the technical and economic parameters of the project. Based on its results, a special agreement will be adopted to specify the next steps.

EPCG CEO Ivan Bulatović said the Consolidated Data Center isn’t just an infrastructure project.

Bulatović: The goal is to create a system set for the challenges of the future

“It is the foundation of digital transformation that will enable more accurate data analysis, greater efficiency in decision making, and a safer power system. Our goal is to create a system set for future challenges. Digitalization is an inevitable step in the modernization of the sector, and CDC is a key segment of that process,” Bulatović stressed.

According to Vladimir Ivanović, CEDIS CEO, the cooperation of key Montenegrin energy companies is significant, as is providing support to other businesses.

Ivanović: CDC to enable better coordination between companies

“The development of the power system doesn’t only mean investments in the grid and capacities, but also in smart solutions enabling greater flexibility and safety in operations,” Ivanović noted.

He underlined the CDC’s role in improving coordination between companies, reduction of operating costs, and improvement of IT infrastructure.

Asanović: A strong step forward in the modernization of the sector

CGES CEO Ivan Asanović stressed the project’s importance for digitalization and the creation of a system that will enable more efficient management of power resources at the level of the entire country.

CDC represents a strong step forward in upgrading the sector and ensures a better connection between all key participants in the power system, according to Asanović.

Post Views:125

April 14, 2025

by AEA in News

Belgrade Energy Forum 2025 – 50 speakers at eight panels to track pace of SEE energy transition

The agenda of the third Belgrade Energy Forum, taking place on May 14-15, has been finalized with the addition of further prominent energy experts and companies. The conference, organized by Southeast Europe’s leading energy news portal, Balkan Green Energy News, will feature eight panels covering key topics in the energy sector, with an impressive lineup of speakers. Make sure you register on time via this link.

The Belgrade Energy Forum will once again be a meeting place for representatives of regional and international institutions and organizations, as well as the business community from across the region, Europe, and the world.

Eight panels featuring more than 50 speakers will offer an overview of the current challenges in the energy sector. Conference participants will hear in-depth analyses of the current situation, but also projections for the future. The thread that connects everything at this year’s BEF is digitalization – it permeates energy production, consumption, and storage and allows enough flexibility for the stable functioning of the energy systems of the future, where renewable energy will dominate.

Chikán: Electricity knows no borders

One of the key speakers at the conference, Alteo Group CEO Chikán Attila, will lead the company’s high-level delegation. Alteo has recently launched a regional expansion drive, aiming to establish a green platform of up to 2 GW in energy production, including operation, software, maintenance, storage, and waste management.

The Hungarian company primarily targets its home market, Slovakia, Croatia, and Serbia.

“Electricity knows no borders, therefore partnerships and collaborations among energy market players are essential, even at the regional level. Such cooperation is vital to ensuring the security and reliability of electricity supply, facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources, and providing essential digital solutions, supported by expertise and professional know-how,” Chikán stressed.

Decarbonization strategies for power generation in Southeast Europe 2040/2050

Dejan Paravan, CEO, GEN Energija
Dušan Živković, CEO, EPS
Eric Scotto, CEO, AKUO
Milutin Đukanović, Chairman, EPCG Board of Directors
Neda Lazendić, Country Manager, WV-International

Although at the heart of national energy systems, state-owned power utilities are faced with an environment that has changed and continues to change rapidly. The key shift is the entry of private capital into electricity production through the construction of solar power plants and wind farms.

The energy transition, at this stage, requires cooperation between state power utilities and private companies. With decarbonization as the main objective, the key challenge lies in choosing appropriate strategies and electricity generation technologies.

Moderating the panel will be Dražen Jakšić, Director of the Energy Institute Hrvoje Požar (EIHP).

“The transition to a low-carbon energy system is a key challenge for our region, demanding innovation, investment, and cooperation. As a sponsor of the Belgrade Energy Forum, EIHP is committed to fostering dialogue and driving sustainable energy solutions. I look forward to an insightful discussion,” he stressed.

Jakšić: The transition to a low-carbon energy system is a key challenge for our region, demanding innovation, investment, and cooperation

In recent years, nuclear energy has emerged as a possible alternative. There is hardly a better interlocutor on this topic in the region than Dejan Paravan, the top man of GEN Energija, the Slovenian company developing the Krško 2 nuclear power plant project.

Dušan Živković, CEO of Elektroprivreda Srbije (EPS), will tell us about the Serbian power utility’s plans when it comes to nuclear energy.

Živković: Without decarbonization, the region’s energy sector has no future

“Without decarbonization, there is no future for the region’s energy sector, and that is the biggest challenge ahead of us. It is essential to accelerate decisions and ensure sustainable project financing mechanisms that will provide energy security for every country and power utility in the decades to come. By investing in existing capacities and new renewable energy projects, EPS, as the biggest utility in the region, will make its own contribution to energy security. That’s why we have initiated a transformation process – because we need to be more profitable, more efficient, and fully prepared to tackle any challenge,” Živković pointed out.

The energy transition, in his words, is the path EPS has chosen, and all its plans will align with that goal, based on the belief that the diversification of energy sources and new technologies are essential for achieving it. “These are just some of the key messages I will share with the participants of this year’s BEF,” said Živković.

Eric Scotto, co-founder and CEO of French company Akuo, will share the latest information on the energy transition from across the globe.

The company’s portfolio consists of 1.9 GW of power plants in operation and under construction, with a further 12 GW in the pipeline in more than 20 countries around the world, including a number of countries in the Southeast Europe region.

Integration of Western Balkans electricity markets into internal European market through market coupling

Anže Predovnik, Director, ADEX Group
Ivan Asanović, Executive Director, CGES
Marko Bislimoski, President, Energy, Water Services and Municipal Waste Management Services Regulatory Commission of the Republic of North Macedonia
Zoran Vujasinović, Policy Officer, ACER

The integration of the Western Balkans’ electricity markets with the European Union (EU) markets is a process that deserves much greater public attention than it currently receives. It is safe to say that its true importance will become evident only once it is completed.

Full integration will unlock significant synergies, maximizing the benefits of a unified market by enhancing supply security, accelerating the integration of renewable energy sources, and fostering greater competition and transparency.

Moderator Dejan Stojčevski, CTO of the SEEPEX power exchange, says the panel seeks to encourage dialogue on the importance of cross-border collaboration and market efficiency in bolstering energy security and sustainability in the region.

Bislimoski: The time for inspiring speeches is over. Geopolitical developments demand action – now!

Since market integration is largely the job of regulators, the challenges they face will be analyzed by Marko Bislimoski, president of North Macedonia’s Energy and Water Services Regulatory Commission (RKE).

He says that three things are essential for the regional integration of electricity markets into a single European market: investment, investment, and nothing but investment. In his words, the energy crisis demonstrated that limitations become a reality when governments fail to prioritize the implementation of key energy infrastructure capacities in their budgets.

“This past winter, the region faced the highest electricity prices compared to the rest of Europe. Why? Because the implementation of energy investments is not just a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Today, more than ever before, the countries of the former Yugoslavia must demonstrate maturity. These are the years when energy independence will be built through action. The time for inspiring speeches is over. Geopolitical developments demand action – now!” he stressed.

Energy revolution underway – uniting efforts to deliver green, intelligent and sustainable energy solutions

Aleš Prešern, VP, Head of Southeast Europe, Siemens Energy
Maja Turković, SVP, CWP Europe
Ann-Catherine de Tourtier, Managing Director Mediterranean, Nordex Group

As much as contesting the energy transition may be futile, there are still those who find such a view meaningful, especially in light of certain global political developments. That’s why it is important to give the floor to some of the transition leaders and let them testify that an energy revolution is indeed underway in the region.

The panel’s moderator Mirza Kušljugić – professor, energy expert, and one of the founders of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Centre for Sustainable Energy Transition Centre (RESET) – goes one step further to show that change is not only happening but also accelerating.

“The key words are a new energy paradigm driven by the four Ds – decarbonization, digitalization, decentralization, and democratization. But now we also have another D: disruption, or radical change in the industry and market caused by technological innovation. Of course, we must focus the discussion – from global processes (China, the US, the EU, the Global South) to where the region stands in all of this,” Kušljugić points out, providing a perfect introduction to the panel.

Turković: It’s more important than ever to have open discussions about real solutions

Aleš Prešern, Vice President and Head of Southeast Europe at Siemens Energy, has worked in the energy sector for more than 20 years. He recalls that digitalization is key, along with grid resilience and electricity transmission.

With nearly 100,000 employees in more than 90 countries, Siemens Energy develops the energy systems of the future, ensuring that the growing energy demand of the global community is met reliably and sustainably. The technologies created in the company’s research departments and factories drive the energy transition and provide the base for one sixth of the world’s electricity generation.

As a leader in renewable energy development, CWP is actively working on several large-scale projects across the SEE region with a total capacity exceeding 7 GW, positioning the company at the forefront of the region’s energy transition. Given its global expertise and insights into the regional energy market, CWP’s contribution to this year’s conference will be invaluable.

Maja Turković, Executive Vice President of CWP Europe, says that BEF 2025 is a key gathering of leading experts driving the energy transition in Southeast Europe.

“As this shift gains momentum, it’s more important than ever to have open, action-driven discussions about real solutions to the challenges and opportunities ahead,” says Turković.

PPAs as a key to renewable energy growth in SEE

Nikola Gazdov, Chairman, Association for production, storage and trading of electricity – APSTE
Natalija Ljubić, Manager PPA & BESS Transactions, Pexapark
Ivana Đurović, Category Manager Renewable Energy, Knauf Group

Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) are, like flexibility, a tool for fixing the imperfections of renewable energy sources, and they are recognized as a key mechanism within the new electricity market design. They ensure price stability, attract new investment, and accelerate the decarbonization of industry.

Is the region ready for PPAs? What are the dominant models? What is the current market practice? How are PPAs viewed by financial institutions? What do they offer to end consumers and what to investors in new power plants? Answers to these questions will be sought at the panel moderated by Mislav Slade-Šilović, Energy, Utilities & Resources Consulting Leader for Southeast Europe and member of the core PPA team at consultancy PwC.

Experience with PPAs for more than 500 GWh of electricity

Slade-Šilović’s experience in concluding PPAs for the production and consumption of over 500 GWh of electricity per year in the SEE region will certainly be of help.

Nikola Gazdov, Chairman of Bulgaria’s association for electricity production, storage, and trading (APSTE) and member of the Board of Directors of the European solar industry association SolarPower Europe, has no shortage of experience either. As CEO of three companies – Enery Element GmbH, Element Power Group, and Renergy – he is involved in the development of a large number of projects.

Pexapark, a company that provides logistics to businesses in the renewable energy market, is synonymous with PPAs in Europe. Natalija Ljubić is the Manager for PPA and BESS Transactions at Pexapark, which has helped conclude contracts for facilities with a combined capacity exceeding 35 GW.

The views of electricity buyers – without whom there would be no PPAs – will be conveyed by Ivana Đurović, Category Manager for Renewable Energy at Knauf Group.

Market flexibility: the backbone of a resilient energy system

Roman Bernard, CEO, NGEN
Luka Renko, COO, KOER
Alteo Group representative
Nikolaj Candellari, Project Manager and Market Intelligence, CyberGrid
Marko Zarić, EMS

Moderating the panel will be Elena Boškov Kovač, co-founder and CEO of Blueprint Energy Solutions, and a leading voice on market flexibility in Europe.

She will host representatives of the sector’s leading companies: NGEN, Alteo, KOER, CyberGrid, as well as Serbia’s transmission system operator Elektromreža Srbije (EMS).

“Excited to moderate a high-impact panel on ‘Market Flexibility: The Backbone of a Resilient Energy System’ at the Belgrade Energy Forum 2025,” says Boškov Kovač, whose work has shaped smart grid strategies and digitalization innovation agendas across the EU and under ETIP SNET.

As Europe accelerates its shift to renewables, market flexibility is emerging as the cornerstone of reliable, affordable, and decarbonized energy systems. With the European flexibility market promising to unlock over EUR 20 billion in savings, this session will explore how digital tools, flexible assets, and new market designs are unlocking value and resilience across the grid.

Slovenia’s NGEN is the technology sponsor of BEF 2025

Slovenian energy company NGEN, the technology sponsor of the conference, has managed to establish itself as a significant player in European markets in just five years of operation and is now ready to enter the Western Balkans’ markets.

Specializing in premium battery storage systems and smart energy solutions, the company is developing systems with a total capacity of 1.6 GWh in European countries. Its founder, Roman Bernard, will be speaking at the panel.

Also taking part in the panel will be Luka Renko, COO of KOER, a pioneer in virtual power plants in the region.

Rounding off the lineup of exceptional panelists will be Nikolaj Candellari, who is responsible for project management at CyberGrid. The software company was acquired a few years ago by Austria’s EVN, one of the first to demonstrate that greater integration of renewable energy sources, battery storage, and prosumers is not possible without digitalization and software solutions.

In a nutshell, this innovative company stands for the digitalization of the energy sector, with a focus on virtual power plants.

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