EPCG: Thermal power plant, in trial operation, pollutes the environment less than before ecological reconstruction and modernization

The Electric Power Company of Montenegro (EPCG) announced that the measurement results of the Center for Ecotoxicological Research (CETI), conducted before and after the adaptation of the boiler and chimney of the Pljevlja Thermal Power Plant, "clearly and unequivocally confirm that during the trial operation of the plant, there was a significant reduction in emissions of key pollutants associated with its operation."

"Based on comparable and methodologically valid measurements, the concentration of sulfur dioxide (SO₂), as the dominant gaseous pollutant characteristic of the operation of thermal power plants, has been reduced by approximately 29 percent compared to the period before the adaptation. This result represents a clear, measurable and environmentally relevant progress and confirms that the Pljevlja Thermal Power Plant today pollutes less than before the ecological reconstruction and modernization," EPCG said in a statement.

They add that the registered slight increase in nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) in the chimney is an expected consequence of a more stable and efficient combustion process, as a direct effect of the technical adaptation of the plant, and that it has no practical or measurable negative impact on air quality in the urban area.

"The comparative analysis further confirms that EPCG's internal data are almost completely consistent with CETI's findings, thus confirming the reliability, consistency and objectivity of the obtained results. EPCG is not the measurement bearer in this process, but a responsible user and interpreter of the data of the competent institution. In this context, Elektroprivreda Crne Gore believes that solutions to the remaining challenges related to air quality in Pljevlja must be sought at other addresses, through a broader, systemic approach, and not through simplified and politically motivated interpretations that ignore the facts and results of the profession."

EPCG also states in the statement that it confirms its commitment to solving pollution problems both through the implementation of capital projects for ecological reconstruction and district heating, as well as through continued social responsibility, including measures aimed at reducing the burden on citizens during the winter months.

"The first visible and measurable results of these efforts are confirmed by CETI's research, which clearly shows that investments in plant modernization are justified and in the interest of both the local community and the entire public. The trial run, under these conditions, was not only carried out without increasing pollution, but measurements confirmed the reduction of harmful emissions, thus providing an undoubtedly stable basis for the plant's further operation," EPCG said in a statement.