Laković: Coal mine supports a model in which Pljevlja will not be a "victim" of the energy transition

The goal of the Pljevlja Coal Mine (RUP) is to, while preserving the country's energy security, simultaneously develop new sustainable activities and create conditions for new jobs, before gradually exiting the company's primary activity, said RUP Executive Director Nemanja Laković.

Laković, who is participating in the Belgrade Energy Forum, added that the process must be carefully planned, gradual and socially responsible, without jeopardizing the energy stability of the country and the economic development of Pljevlja.

"The RUP today is not just a mining system, but a platform for the energy and economic transformation of the entire region. That is why the Coal Mine supports the model of just transition, in which Pljevlja will not be a 'victim' of the energy transition, but its development center," said Laković.

He pointed out that they cannot rely solely on renewable energy sources.

"We must also find an alternative stable energy source that will create a permanently sustainable mix with renewable energy sources," added Laković.

In this direction, as he stated, they have already begun a concrete business transformation through the development of new activities - construction services, production of personal protective equipment, land reclamation, launching asphalt base production, laboratory services, mechanical and electrical maintenance, as well as projects from renewable energy sources.

"Our Just Transition Plan through Business Transformation has already yielded concrete and measurable results after the first year, which has been recognized by European and regional partners. However, a successful and long-term sustainable transition cannot depend on just one company. A strong partnership between the state, local community, international financial institutions and the European Union is needed," explained Laković.

He added that the company initiated the opening of the EU Just Transition Fund for countries that are not members of the European Union, so that Montenegro would have access to financial and expert mechanisms that would enable a planned, efficient and socially responsible transition.

Laković stated that the key challenges today are not only financing, but also the need for a quality national just transition plan, political consensus, prepared investment projects, and the protection of jobs and the local economy during the transformation process.

"Montenegro and the Western Balkans region have significant potential in the field of renewable energy sources, hydropower, solar and wind energy, but their full valorization requires clear regulations, a long-term strategy and serious support," said Laković.

As he said, the Municipality of Velenje managed to withdraw 83 million euros from the Just Transition Fund, which is why he believes that the support of European partners is the most important.

"The Pljevlja Coal Mine remains committed to responsible management of the transition process, preserving the energy stability of the country, and creating new development opportunities for the citizens of Pljevlja and all of Montenegro," concluded Laković.

BEF 2026 is attended by over 400 experts from more than 30 countries, including energy ministers from the region, representatives of international organizations, investors, and leading companies from the energy sector, with the aim of defining directions for energy security in challenging geopolitical circumstances.