Montenegro’s Minister of Mining, Oil and Gas, Admir Sahmanovic, visited Berane to discuss the possible reopening of the brown coal mine, which has been inactive for several years despite significant reserves and investor interest.
During a meeting with Berane’s municipal president, Djole Lutovac, and the mine’s owner, discussions focused on assessing the current situation and potential steps for restarting operations. Sahmanovic emphasized that responsible resource management is crucial and assured government support in evaluating and facilitating the process.
Last year, a Chinese company expressed interest in the mine. The mine was previously owned by Greek company Balkan Energy before Serbian firm Metalfer took over seven years ago, briefly resuming production with 150 workers. However, operations ceased again two years ago due to financial losses covered by the Serbian owner. Since November 2022, a breakdown in an old substation has left the mine without electricity, causing underground flooding that threatens the Petnjik pit.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to strengthen cooperation between local authorities and the ministry to create conditions for potential reactivation.
