Šahmanović: We do not want merely to produce energy, but to build Montenegro’s new economy on it

Our ambition is not only to produce more electricity, but for energy to become the foundation for developing industry, new technologies and better-paid jobs, said Minister of Energy and Mining Mr Admir Šahmanović at the European Union–Montenegro Investment Conference (AIM 2026), being held in Portonovi. Speaking on the panel “Strengthening Energy Resilience: Investments in Renewable Energy Sources,” which brought together representatives of leading international energy companies and financial institutions, Šahmanović stressed that the energy transition can no longer be viewed solely as a matter of replacing conventional sources with renewables, but rather as one of the greatest economic and industrial transformations of the modern world. Significant opportunities are emerging in project development, construction, maintenance, digitalisation and new energy technologies. From an organised system to investments that are transforming the energy landscape, Šahmanović recalled that Montenegro had made significant progress in aligning its energy legislation with European standards, adopted the National Energy and Climate Plan, and improved the regulatory framework for renewable energy sources and cross-border exchange. “We want more results of this kind—new power plants, stronger grids, energy storage systems and investments that will transform our economy in the long term.” In discussions with representatives of international companies and investment institutions, Šahmanović emphasised that Montenegro wants to further strengthen its position as a reliable partner for investment in renewable energy sources, energy infrastructure and new technologies. “Our geographical position, renewable resources and connection to the European market give us the opportunity to become an important energy link between the Western Balkans and the European Union.” He added that Montenegro is among the region’s most advanced countries in the process of European energy integration, and that the Ministry is committed to using the advantages of the single European energy market even before formal EU membership. “The true value of our energy potential lies not only in the megawatts we produce, but in the economy we can build on those megawatts.” The EU–Montenegro Investment Conference (AIM 2026) is being held on 20…