Podgorica, (MINA-BUSINESS) – Executive Director of Elektroprivreda (EPCG) Ivan Bulatovic has said that Montenegro is committed to the green transition and European integration and is moving toward decarbonisation.
However, he emphasized that it is important for that process to be gradual, carefully planned, and supported by concrete mechanisms from the European Union (EU).
Speaking at the international energy symposium organized by EPCG in Budva, Bulatovic highlighted the role of Montenegro and EPCG in the energy transition process.
“It is a great honour and pleasure for us to have such an important event successfully organized for the fourth consecutive year,” said Bulatovic.
He noted that that year’s event, through five thematic panels and three technical presentations, had provided space for new perspectives and concrete solutions, adding that they were more necessary than ever.
According to EPCG, special focus was placed on the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), which present both a challenge and an opportunity for the power sector in the Western Balkans
Speaking about implications of these mechanisms for the operations of energy companies in the region, Bulatovic said: “CBAM is something that, figuratively speaking, is hanging over our heads. In Montenegro, where coal accounts for around 40 percent of annual electricity output, which goes up to 70 percent in the summer, an export levy would only make the situation more difficult.
He noted that EPCG was fully aware of the decarbonization process and was working towards achieving that goal.
“But for the time being, we still need to rely on coal. That’s why this transition must be gradual, well-planned, and supported by concrete EU mechanisms,” he stated.
