Image for illustrative purposes

Montenegro’s transmission system operator, Crnogorski Elektroprenosni Sistem (CGES), has signed a $9,1 million (€7.9 million) contract with a consortium of XEnergy and Astor Enerji for the supply of power transformers as part of a broader upgrade of the Brezna substation.

The project, supported by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), involves the installation of two 300 MVA three-winding autotransformers operating at 400/115/10.5 kV. The upgrade will replace the current 110/35 kV configuration at the substation.

The contract includes design, manufacturing, factory acceptance testing, delivery, spare parts, installation tools, insulating oil, and monitoring systems. Completion is scheduled for October 31, 2027.

According to the EBRD, the upgraded substation will be connected to Montenegro’s transmission network via the planned 400 kV Lastva–Pljevlja transmission line. The project is intended to enable the integration of at least 200 MW of renewable energy capacity currently under development.

The upgrade is also expected to reduce transmission losses by approximately 13 GWh annually, improve grid stability, and enhance energy security. It may further support future interconnection with Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The EBRD previously approved a $32 million (€28 million) loan for the project, while Montenegro has applied for a €7 million grant from the European Union’s Western Balkans Investment Framework.