Šahmanović: Good dynamics of work on state reservoirs for strategic reserves

This is an important project for Montenegro's energy security. Cleaning and surface preparation, ultrasonic testing, corrosion protection, content analysis, and dismantling of existing heaters have been completed on reservoirs R-11, R-12, and R-18, along with necessary project and technical documentation. More than 115 tons of residual fuel oil, sludge, and other impurities have been removed from the reservoirs, and detailed thickness and technical condition tests have been conducted. This is part of a broader effort to strengthen supply security. The investment is valued at 2.2 million euros, funded with support from the European Commission through an aid package to mitigate the effects of the energy crisis. The system was practically nonexistent and had to be built from scratch, first through legal frameworks, then by securing reserves and solving storage issues. In 18 months, a significant amount of work has been done, and we have reason to be satisfied with the results. The property disputes related to state reservoirs were resolved by the Higher Court judgments in 2015. After that, we began adapting the reservoirs to finally give them their intended purpose. Montenegro has so far secured about 40% of the legal obligation for strategic oil derivative reserves, and the procurement process for the remaining quantities will continue.