The EU energy support package for Montenegro, worth €30 million, was officially launched at a ceremony in Podgorica on Wednesday, 8 March. The EU funds will be used to help the most vulnerable groups in Montenegro to cope with the higher living costs caused by the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, but also to facilitate the country’s transition to green energy.
In the presence of the Head of the EU Delegation to Montenegro Oana Cristina Popa and Prime Minister Dritan Abazovic, Head of the cooperation section in the Delegation of the European Union to Montenegro, Yngve Engström and the coordinator of the Ministry of European Integration, Minister Ana Novakovic Djurovic signed a document that opened the path for the implementation of the European Union’s energy support package for Montenegro.
As part of the regional package of one billion Euros meant to support our Western Balkans partners in tackling the energy situation and high prices caused by Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, Montenegro will receive a fast-tracked €27 million, while the total value of the support package for Montenegro is €30 million.
As Head of Delegation Oana Cristina Popa stated, the support package aims to protect the most vulnerable groups. The EU will support those with the lowest income, who have already suffered from the higher living costs caused by the Russian war on Ukraine.
“Pensioners, individuals, and families that are currently receiving social benefits will receive direct monetary compensation. We also want to ensure that everyone who is currently getting help with electricity bills will continue to be supported during 2023. Secondly, the only way to ensure a long-term sustainable energy supply is to go green. With the Energy Support Package, we support Montenegro in its green transition efforts which will help increase its energy security,” said Popa.
As stated, in its Action Plan Montenegro has agreed to use the EU budget support to promote the use of renewables, increase energy efficiency, and adopt a strategic vision on the country’s future in terms of energy and climate.
Prime Minister Dritan Abazovic said that the government owes a great debt of gratitude to the European Union for the support worth €30 million. He emphasised that the support is extremely important for citizens, as it will affect more than 45,000 citizens in just one segment.
Ambassador Popa said that the European Union is committed to supporting Montenegro on its European path. “We want the citizens of Montenegro to experience the benefits of the EU in their daily life as soon as possible„ concluded Popa.