Montenegrin Society of Ecologists and EuroNatur: Suspend plans for the construction of the "Komarnica" hydroelectric power plant

A coalition of over 200 international scientists, legal experts, energy experts and environmentalists, together with more than 20 national non-governmental organisations (NGOs), is calling on the Montenegrin government to immediately halt plans to build the Komarnica hydroelectric power plant in the Komarnica canyon. In an open letter to national authorities, the signatories demand the cancellation of this controversial project, citing irreparable environmental damage, political interference and disregard for legal obligations, according to a statement signed by the NGO Montenegrin Society of Ecologists and EuroNatur.

"Despite the great concern of environmentalists and the opposition of experts, the environmental impact assessment procedure for the Komarnica hydroelectric power plant project (Elaborat) was marked by serious irregularities. After a revision period that lasted 855 days, the Elaborat was resubmitted in February 2025, with a significant delay and still accompanied by serious shortcomings. These circumstances further strengthen the position of the civil sector that the Elaborat must be completely rejected, and that the project cannot receive environmental approval. However, the Environmental Protection Agency of Montenegro has not yet made an official decision," the statement of the aforementioned NGOs reads.

This delay raises concerns that political pressure from the project's investors is undermining the transparency and science-based process, raising serious questions about accountability and governance, it added.

"We are awaiting the final decision of the Agency and demand accountability from all relevant parties. Approval of this project would not only destroy a national treasure, but would also further undermine public trust in the environmental decision-making process," said Andrijana Mićanović, Secretary General of the Montenegrin Society of Ecologists.

"Despite widespread concerns from experts and civil society, the Montenegrin government seems determined to proceed with the project. However, no proper analysis of costs and benefits, energy efficiency, or public interest has been published," the statement said.

These NGOs said that independent estimates show that construction costs have almost doubled since 2012, reaching 343 million euros, while the project would contribute less than 2% of Montenegro's total energy needs.

Experts point out that there are sustainable alternatives, such as hybrid solar and wind energy systems, that would provide a higher return without sacrificing the ecosystem.

The call to halt the Komarnica project comes at a time when civil society across Montenegro is increasingly concerned about recent political moves that enable mega-infrastructure investments by international actors that circumvent environmental law. The European Commission has also expressed serious concerns about the Montenegrin parliament opening the door to the development of the 12km-long Velika beach, a pristine natural oasis, the statement said.

"As Montenegro continues its path towards EU membership, respecting environmental laws, ensuring transparent processes and protecting natural heritage must remain unquestioned," stressed Ameli Huber, Freshwater Project Manager at EuroNatur.