Electricity in Montenegro in 2023

In Montenegro, as of currently in 2023, over half of the electricity is produced from low-carbon sources, with hydropower being the dominant contributor, accounting for about 48% of electricity. Fossil fuel generation, nearly all of which comes from coal, is responsible for close to 37%. Wind power, while modest compared to hydropower and coal, provides about 8.5% of Montenegro's electricity. Additionally, the relatively small percentage, around 6%, obtained from net imports suggests that Montenegro is almost self-sufficient in electricity production.

Suggestions

To enhance it's low-carbon electricity generation, Montenegro can draw several lessons from successful countries worldwide. For example, they could begin to invest in nuclear power like France and Slovakia, where nuclear electricity generation stands at an impressive 66% and 61% receptively. Similarly, countries like Denmark and Uruguay with 59% and 40% of their electricity being generated by wind gives a clear indication of how much wind power can be harnessed. Montenegro has enjoyed success with its use of hydropower but diversifying to include nuclear and expanding wind power could prove beneficial in increasing its low-carbon electricity ratio.

History

Looking at the history of low-carbon electricity in Montenegro, hydroelectric power has been a key player. Over the years, there have been highs and lows in electricity generation from hydropower. For instance, from late 2006 to 2011, there was a volatile but evident net drop in hydropower. However, from 2012 to 2014, there was an increase before another dip from 2014 through to 2017. Despite the fluctuations in hydropower production, hydroelectric generation remained a mainstay in Montenegro's clean energy mix. Moreover, from 2017 onwards, wind power started to contribute, albeit marginally, to the electricity mix. The presence of wind in the energy mix marked the beginning of a diversified low-carbon approach to electricity generation in Montenegro.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Maximum Imports

Data Sources