Montenegro’s electricity transmission infrastructure is poised for a substantial upgrade, with the country’s transmission system operator, CGES, unveiling an ambitious investment initiative valued at more than €200 million over the next five years. This strategic program is designed to strengthen system reliability, enhance cross-border interconnections, and facilitate the integration of new renewable energy projects into the national grid.
The impact of recent investments is already evident, as transmission losses in Montenegro’s high-voltage network have decreased to an impressive 1.6–1.7%. This achievement positions Montenegro among the most efficient electricity systems in Europe, underscoring the positive effects of ongoing capital investments in the sector.
In the past year, several significant projects have been completed, including a comprehensive overhaul of the Pljevlja 1 substation and the construction of a 150 km transmission line between Lastva and Pljevlja. This line is expected to become operational soon and will complete a crucial 400 kV loop within Montenegro’s national network. This enhancement will bolster operational security for both Montenegro and its neighboring countries. Additionally, two new 110 kV lines connecting Brezna, Žabljak, and Pljevlja are set to improve supply reliability while supporting the integration of further renewable energy sources.
Voltage stability remains a critical focus area for CGES. The ongoing upgrade at the Lastva substation aims to mitigate persistently high voltage levels and is anticipated to be operational by the end of January. Plans are also underway for a new 400 kV substation in Brezna, which will further enhance network resilience and accommodate significant new renewable energy capacity.
Moreover, CGES is pursuing various cross-border and refurbishment initiatives. These include reconstructing the 220 kV line from Bosnia and Herzegovina through Montenegro to Albania, modernizing the HPP Perucica substation, and replacing transformers at Pljevlja 2.
A pivotal development in regional energy cooperation is the proposed 400 kV interconnection with Serbia, which aims to complete the Trans-Balkan Corridor. This strategic link is expected to improve regional electricity flows significantly and lay the groundwork for a second submarine electricity cable between Montenegro and Italy, thereby further integrating Montenegro’s grid into the European electricity market.
