What is being negotiated?

Energy is a pillar of sustainable development and one of the key areas for Montenegro’s European future, and traditionally one of the most significant areas of activity of the European Union. A strong energy sector is crucial for the country’s economic stability and geopolitical security, and it has a major impact on the economy, the market, the environment, and the daily lives of citizens. As the EU strives to establish a single, competitive, secure, and sustainable energy market, negotiations under Chapter 15 entail the alignment of national legislation with EU law, significant infrastructure investments, and institutional reforms. The energy sector is also strategically important in the context of the just transition and the green agenda.

Sub-areas

The EU acquis in this chapter consists of six sub-areas:

• Electricity

• Hydrocarbons

• Gas

• Renewable energy sources

• Energy efficiency

• Nuclear safety and radiation protection

When was the chapter opened?

The chapter was opened at the Intergovernmental Conference held on 21 December 2015 in Brussels.

Closing benchmarks

Within Negotiating Chapter 15, Montenegro is required to fulfil three closing benchmarks:

1. Montenegro must complete legislative alignment with the acquis on compulsory oil stocks, establish an administrative structure for managing oil stocks, and begin building up stocks in accordance with the Action Plan.

2. Montenegro must align with the acquis on the internal energy market, including the unbundling of all energy undertakings in accordance with one of the models defined by the acquis.

3. Montenegro must align with the acquis on energy efficiency.

What are the activities in the upcoming period?

In the upcoming period, it is necessary to intensify activities aimed at fulfilling the closing benchmarks, through the establishment of oil stocks, market liberalisation, strengthening energy efficiency, and reinforcing institutional capacities for the implementation of EU legislation.

What are the benefits of this chapter for Montenegro?

Upon accession to the EU, Montenegro will achieve greater security of energy supply through attracting investments in the energy sector, increasing the use of renewable energy sources, and fostering market competition. This will enhance environmental protection, generate energy savings and more favourable energy prices, and improve the quality of services for end users.

Given that the energy sector represents one of the strategic branches of Montenegro’s economy, and considering the benefits gained through alignment with European legislation and standards, reforms in the area covered by Chapter 15 and integration into the regional and European energy market should be a priority for the country.