EU-supported investments in energy-efficient schools in Montenegro

Montenegro will benefit from new EU-supported investments in public infrastructure, focusing on the energy efficiency of educational facilities.

Minister of Energy and Mining Admir Šahmanović, in the presence of Minister of Education, Science and Innovation Anđela Jakšić Stojanović, signed a contract worth 4.8 million euros to improve the energy efficiency of elementary schools in Berane and Bijelo Polje. 

The works are expected to be completed within five months.

Three schools will be renovated under this initiative:

•    Primary School Vuk Karadžić, Berane

•    Primary School Vladislav Ribnikar, Bijelo Polje

•    Primary School Risto Ratković, Bijelo Polje

Upgrades will include new roofs, insulation, modern LED lighting, renovated bathrooms, and a switch from oil-based heating to environmentally friendly pellet systems.

The project is part of the Promotion of Energy Efficiency in Public Buildings, implemented under the Regional Energy Efficiency programme of the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF). It combines a €45 million loan from KfW, nearly €4.8 million in EU grant funding, and up to €10 million from the Montenegrin state budget.

Speaking at the signing, Minister Šahmanović emphasised that energy-efficient schools contribute to better learning conditions and balanced regional development. Minister Jakšić Stojanović underlined the importance of sustainable infrastructure for quality education and a healthier environment.

This investment builds on similar projects already completed in Bar, Cetinje, Tuzi and Kotor, with further works planned across Montenegro.

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About REEP

Launched in 2013 under the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF), the Regional Energy Efficiency Programme (REEP) supports renewable energy and energy efficiency investments across the region. With over €1 billion mobilised to date, it has refurbished more than 90 public buildings, supported 1,500 SMEs and 20,000 households, and achieved annual savings of 732 GWh of energy and 522 kt of CO₂ emissions.

About WBIF and Global Gateway

The Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) is part of Global Gateway, the EU’s strategy to foster smart, clean and secure connections in digital, energy and transport, while strengthening health, education and research systems worldwide. Global Gateway aims to mobilise up to €300 billion in investments through a Team Europe approach, bringing together the EU, its Member States and financial institutions to deliver sustainable impact.