Montenegrin Investment Agency: Institutional Partner of Energy Week Western Balkans for the Fifth Consecutive Year

The Montenegrin Investment Agency participated in the fifth Energy Week Western Balkans conference, held on 7. 7 and 8 October 2026 in Budva, which brought together representatives of institutions, energy companies, investors and international financial institutions. For the fifth consecutive year, the Agency served as an institutional partner of the event, supporting dialogue on investment opportunities, the energy transition and regional cooperation.

The Agency’s Director, Mirjana Kojić, delivered an opening address alongside the Minister of Energy and Mining, Admir Šahmanović, MSc, and the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Elektroprivreda Crne Gore (EPCG), Milutin Đukanović. Kristina Vuković, Independent Advisor I in the Agency’s Sector for Investment Promotion and International Cooperation, also attended the conference.

The opening address highlighted the significant role of energy in Montenegro’s current and future development, as a key pillar of the economy and a sector that creates opportunities for new investment, technological advancement and sustainable growth. Reliable supply and access to clean energy were recognised as important prerequisites for economic competitiveness and citizens’ quality of life.

The importance of improving the legislative and strategic framework for the energy sector, aligning with European rules and integrating into the single European electricity market was emphasised. Alongside a sound regulatory framework, consistent implementation of legislation, efficient procedures and effective coordination among the competent institutions are particularly important for investor confidence, ensuring that progress in reform delivers tangible value for the economy.

Particular attention was given to investment opportunities in renewable energy, grid modernisation, energy storage and energy efficiency. These investments were highlighted as having broader significance for development through cooperation between domestic and international companies, the application of new technologies and the development of supporting services and activities. The importance of a just transition was also emphasised, with new opportunities for employment, skills development and a sustainable economic outlook for local communities.

The two-day conference programme connected the strategic objectives of the energy transition with practical aspects of project implementation. Panels covered renewable energy development and financing, battery storage systems and hybrid projects, long-term power purchase agreements, grid capacity expansion, electricity trading and regional market integration. Industrial decarbonisation, digitalisation and the application of artificial intelligence in energy systems were also discussed. The programme included business meetings, providing opportunities for participants to connect and explore potential cooperation.

The conference themes highlighted the interdependence of the regulatory framework, financing, infrastructure and market development in implementing energy investments. Particular emphasis was placed on regional cooperation, interconnected energy systems and markets, the exchange of experience and coordinated approaches, which can contribute to greater security of supply and stronger investor confidence in the Western Balkans.

The Agency’s five-year institutional partnership with Energy Week Western Balkans represents continued support for a platform that connects regional development priorities, international expertise and investment opportunities.

The Montenegrin Investment Agency will continue to provide investors with relevant information and support in connecting with competent institutions and potential partners, with the aim of turning identified opportunities into sound investment initiatives and long-term cooperation that benefits the economy and citizens.