In a strategic move to enhance energy storage capabilities, the Montenegrin utility company EPCG has reopened the procurement process for a small-scale battery storage system in Nikšić. This decision follows an unsuccessful attempt earlier this year, which did not yield any bids. The current tender indicates a shift towards a more cautious and incremental strategy in developing energy storage solutions.
The new tender seeks proposals for a battery energy storage system with an output capacity ranging from 100 to 130 kW and a storage capability between 200 and 270 kWh. Bidders are required to submit their offers by May 13, with the project primarily aimed at bolstering local grid stability through practical and modest deployment of battery storage technology.
This latest round of bidding features an increased estimated project value of 90,000 euros, up from the previous 75,000 euros. The earlier tender was canceled in March after failing to attract any bids by the February deadline. The contractor selected from this new process will need to complete the installation within 60 days post-contract signing and provide a warranty lasting at least five years, which can be extended to twelve years. These stipulations reflect a heightened emphasis on delivery timelines and reliability.
EPCG’s challenges in the battery storage sector are not new. A larger procurement initiative launched last year, which aimed to establish two systems with a combined capacity of 30 MW and 120 MWh, was also abandoned due to the government’s refusal to approve necessary loan financing. This project, valued at approximately 58 million euros, underscored significant financing constraints and implementation hurdles associated with expanding storage infrastructure.
The relaunch of this smaller tender suggests that EPCG is adopting a more measured approach to integrating battery storage into its operations. This strategy comes after previous difficulties in attracting sufficient market interest and securing financial support. The current initiative represents a cautious yet necessary step towards modernizing energy storage solutions within Montenegro’s evolving energy landscape.
