Director Lorkowski visits Montenegro to discuss energy and climate reforms

On 3 June, Director Lorkowski met with the Deputy Prime Minister for regional development and Minister of Capital Investments of Montenegro, responsible for energy issues, Ervin Ibrahimović. The discussions focussed on the country’s progress in transposing the Clean Energy for all European package, its coal phase-out strategy, efficient and renewable energy deployment and the current situation in the energy market. Director Lorkowski highlighted priorities at the level of the Energy Community, including the adoption of 2030 energy and climate targets and the implementation of the Decarbonisation Roadmap.

Director Lorkowski said: “Today’s meeting was very productive. We had the opportunity to exchange information and discuss Montenegro’s progress in the green energy transition and take stock of open issues with the Ministry and key stakeholders in the energy sector, including how to ensure compliance with the Industrial Emissions Directive. We identified the needed ingredients to make the energy transition in Montenegro and especially its coal regions a success.”

Minister Ibrahimović said: “Montenegro has a good track record in energy sector reforms, as one of the top performers in the Energy Community. Despite the energy supply challenges, the Montenegro Government is firmly committed to keeping the green energy transition on track and bringing greenhouse gas emissions to zero in line with the European Green Deal. We strongly appreciate the Secretariat’s support in helping us turn energy transition challenges into opportunities.”

During his visit, the Director addressed Montenegro Parliament’s Committee responsible for energy issues. He also held introductory meetings with the management of key energy stakeholders and companies, including the Energy and Water Regulatory Authority of Montenegro, Montenegrin Power Exchange, the national incumbent EPCG and system operators.

The Director was accompanied by Deputy Director Dirk Buschle and Senior Energy Efficiency Expert Borko Raicevic.