The Montenegrin Government is set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Japan’s energy company JERA, paving the way for the potential development of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal and a gas-fired power plant in the country.
Officials describe the agreement as a significant step forward in bilateral relations, moving beyond traditional development cooperation and technical assistance toward strategic infrastructure investment.
Until now, economic ties between Montenegro and Japan have been limited, but both sides see considerable opportunities in energy, sustainable technologies, and infrastructure. Japan, as one of the world’s leading economies with an advanced energy sector, views the Balkans as a region of strategic importance for stability and energy transition. Montenegro expects that working with JERA will bring valuable technology transfer, knowledge sharing, and the adoption of best practices.
A detailed feasibility study will be carried out to examine the project’s technical, financial, economic, and regulatory dimensions. JERA’s involvement is expected to lend credibility to the process, ensuring reliable results and providing Montenegro with a clear understanding of optimal solutions aligned with international standards and decarbonization policies.
The government emphasized that the initiative will help diversify energy sources, enhance supply security, and bring the country closer to its decarbonization targets, without placing additional financial strain on the state budget.