Government Allocates Funds for Diesel Reserves
Montenegro is set to bolster its strategic fuel reserves by initiating a new procurement round in 2026, with an investment ranging from €9 million to €12 million focused on acquiring additional diesel supplies. This initiative forms part of the country’s mandated reserve system aimed at ensuring energy security amidst potential supply disruptions.
Procurement Details and Compliance with EU Standards
The government plans to purchase approximately 12,000 to 16,000 tons of diesel, contingent upon market prices and available funding. The indicative price for diesel has been estimated at €750 per ton. This procurement aligns with Montenegro’s adherence to a recently enacted law that mirrors European Union regulations requiring member states to maintain reserves sufficient to cover three months’ worth of consumption.
Storage Infrastructure Upgrades Necessary
Scheduled deliveries are anticipated for December 2026, with the acquired fuel intended for storage at state-owned oil terminals located in the Adriatic port city of Bar. However, these facilities are slated for urgent refurbishment which aims to expand their capacity up to around 17,600 cubic meters. Should renovation delays occur, contingency measures include using local distributor Jugopetrol’s terminals or securing storage solutions abroad in Croatia or Italy; costs associated with third-party storage are projected at about €5 per ton monthly.
Simultaneous Initiatives Enhance Fuel Supply Security
In conjunction with this primary acquisition strategy, Montenegro has launched another procurement effort valued at €11 million targeting up to 16,500 tons of EN 590 diesel scheduled for delivery in April 2026. This batch will be stored over a three-year period within Jugopetrol’s terminal facilities in Bar. Notably, private sector importers have already met substantial portions of Montenegro’s reserve requirements—companies such as Jugopetrol itself along with INA and Petrol have collectively secured around 40% of the total reserves needed by the end of 2025.
Surcharge Implementation Aims Financial Sustainability
To facilitate funding necessary for building these strategic stocks, Montenegro has instituted a surcharge on fuel sales amounting to €0.03 per liter effective early next year through until the end of 2029. Post-2029 adjustments anticipate reducing this levy down to €0.02 per liter aimed specifically toward maintaining ongoing operations within the reserve system.
