Montenegro’s Pljevlja thermal power plant provided around 65% of electricity generated by state utility EPCG between June and August as poor hydrology sharply increased the country’s dependence on coal-fired production.
The plant generated approximately 442,000 MWh during the three months, operating at an average load of around 200 MW and producing close to 4,800 MWh per day.
EPCG valued the output at more than €51 million. Buying the same volume on Hungary’s HUPX exchange at prevailing prices would have cost about €57.4 million, according to the company.
Pljevlja’s continuous operation was supported by lignite from the nearby mine, which EPCG operates as part of an integrated mining and generation complex.
The thermal plant’s role became more important as dry conditions reduced output from Montenegro’s hydroelectric fleet, normally a dominant part of the country’s generation mix.
The summer performance illustrates the short-term security-of-supply dilemma facing Montenegro as it increases renewable capacity but remains highly exposed to hydrological volatility.
When reservoir conditions deteriorate, Pljevlja still provides a domestic baseload alternative to potentially expensive electricity imports.
