Montenegro is poised to enhance its electricity transmission network significantly, with the national transmission system operator, CGES, launching an ambitious investment program exceeding €200 million over the next five years. This initiative is designed to bolster system reliability, expand cross-border connectivity, and facilitate the integration of new renewable energy projects into the grid.
Recent investments have already yielded positive outcomes. Transmission losses within Montenegro’s high-voltage network have been reduced to approximately 1.6–1.7%, positioning the system among the most efficient in Europe. These improvements reflect the impact of ongoing capital expenditure aimed at modernizing infrastructure.
In the past year, several large-scale projects have been completed, including the overhaul of the Pljevlja 1 substation and the construction of the 150 km Lastva–Pljevlja transmission line, which is expected to become operational soon. This new line will close a 400 kV loop within Montenegro’s national grid, enhancing operational security for both Montenegro and its neighboring countries. Additionally, two new 110 kV lines linking Brezna, Žabljak, and Pljevlja are set to improve supply reliability and support the integration of more renewable power sources.
Voltage stability remains a critical focus area for CGES. The upgrade of the Lastva substation, which aims to mitigate persistently high voltage levels, is nearing completion and is anticipated to be operational by the end of January. Furthermore, plans are underway for a new 400 kV substation in Brezna, which will enhance network resilience and facilitate connections for substantial new renewable capacity.
Additional initiatives include cross-border projects and refurbishment efforts, such as the reconstruction of the 220 kV line connecting Bosnia and Herzegovina through Montenegro to Albania, modernization of the HPP Perucica substation, and transformer replacements at Pljevlja 2.
A flagship regional development is the planned 400 kV interconnection with Serbia, which aims to complete the Trans-Balkan Corridor. This strategic connection is expected to enhance regional electricity flows and lay the groundwork for a second submarine electricity cable between Montenegro and Italy, further integrating Montenegro’s network into the European electricity market.
