Montenegro’s Pljevlja coal-fired power plant generated 1,099 GWh so far in 2026, about 8% above plan. Its output has supported domestic electricity supply as hydropower availability weakened. The plant has produced about 46 TWh since it entered service 44 years ago and remains one of Montenegro’s largest electricity sources.
State utility EPCG reported that Pljevlja supplied roughly 47% of its generation so far this year. That share was 44% during the first eight months.
Drought increased the value of thermal generation
The plant’s role grew during the summer drought, as low reservoir and river levels cut hydropower output. In one three-month period, Pljevlja generated around 442 GWh, equivalent to about 65% of EPCG’s total production. The utility estimated the market value of that electricity at more than €51 million.
Buying the same volume on Hungary’s HUPX exchange would have cost approximately €57.4 million, excluding transmission and other associated expenses. EPCG puts the current value of the plant’s daily electricity production at around €1.1 million.
Emissions cuts and further upgrades
Pljevlja has undergone environmental reconstruction, with tests cited by EPCG showing nitrogen-oxide emissions down 74% and sulphur dioxide emissions down 98.4%. Separate measurements by Montenegro’s Centre for Ecotoxicological Research found emissions within applicable limits.
EPCG is considering further work on the turbines, steam pipelines, coal-dust ducts and recirculation equipment. The utility aims to maintain the plant’s reliability while expanding cleaner generation.
