As of 2024, Montenegro's electricity consumption is predominantly derived from low-carbon sources, with over half of its electricity coming from these green energy sources. Specifically, hydropower accounts for nearly 47% of the total electricity production, indicating a significant reliance on this clean energy source. Additionally, wind contributes around 9% of the electricity share, and solar energy, though modest, adds nearly 2%. Fossil fuels, in the form of coal, still account for almost 40% of the electricity consumed, reflecting the continued presence of carbon-intensive energy in the energy mix. The country also relies on net imports for roughly 3% of its electricity needs, thus indicating a slight dependency on external sources. This mix presents a clear opportunity for Montenegro to further promote clean energy and reduce its reliance on coal.
Data sources used on this page include Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Montenegro?
Despite some progress in clean electricity generation, the overall electricity consumption in Montenegro has seen a notable decline since its peak. In 2024, the per-person electricity consumption stands at 5,386 kWh, which is a significant drop from the 7,612 kWh per person recorded in 2006. This reduction of 2,226 kWh shows a worrying trend of decreasing electricity consumption when growth is essential to meet future demands and support economic development. Likewise, the low-carbon electricity generation per person now registers at 3,082 kWh, falling short of the 2010 high of 4,351 kWh, marking a reduction of 1,269 kWh. The decline in clean energy figures underscores the need for a strategic focus on enhancing sustainable electricity generation.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Montenegro can learn from regions with successful strategies in expanding nuclear and solar energy. For instance, considering the effective adoption of nuclear power by countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear accounts for 68% and 67% respectively, Montenegro can significantly benefit from investing in nuclear projects. Solar energy also presents a significant opportunity, as highlighted by Nevada and Lebanon, which generate about 33% and 31% of their electricity from solar. Diversifying the energy mix with significant contributions from nuclear and solar will not only strengthen Montenegro’s energy independence but also marginalize the coal-dependent section of its energy portfolio. The collective experiences of such regions highlight the potential benefits of an ambitious strategy centered on green energy expansion.
History
The historical data on Montenegro's low-carbon electricity highlights a dynamic trajectory of hydroelectric generation, with periods of both growth and decline. During the 2000s, there were several fluctuations, with notable increases such as in 2009, where hydro generation rose by 0.5 TWh. However, the next decade saw a mix of significant declines, as seen in 2011 with a drop of 1.5 TWh, and recoveries, including the substantial increase of 1.1 TWh in 2018. In recent years, minor declines such as a 0.6 TWh decrease in 2024 indicate potential vulnerabilities. Moreover, the introduction of wind energy in 2019 signifies steps towards diversification. This historical narrative emphasizes the importance of consistent investments and strategic foresight to stabilize and enhance Montenegro's low-carbon electricity landscape, avoiding pitfalls and embracing sustainable growth.
