Montenegro and Green Hydrogen: Energy of the Future or Just Another Empty Promise?
Green Hydrogen – Miracle or Illusion?
Montenegro has finally unveiled its first strategic document on the development of green hydrogen. Yes, you read that right – green hydrogen! The energy of the future, they say. But is it really so, or just another promise that will remain on paper?
The Minister of Energy, Mining, and Industry, Admir Šahmanović, claims that Montenegro is not only following European trends but wants to be among the countries setting them. Green hydrogen, he says, is gaining increasing importance across Europe and the world. But let’s see what that actually means.
What is Green Hydrogen and Why is it So Important?
Green hydrogen is an energy carrier produced using renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, and its only byproduct is water. Sounds like a dream for the planet, right?
But here’s a shocking fact: currently, only 4% of hydrogen worldwide comes from green sources, while a whopping 95% is derived from fossil fuels! So, the world is far from a green revolution in this sector, and Montenegro wants to join the race.
Montenegro – A Small Player with Big Ambitions
Montenegro has great potential for green hydrogen development thanks to its solar and wind resources. The Ministry has drafted a development program fully aligned with the national energy and climate plan and European goals.
The program sets clear targets up to 2030, an action plan, and a regulatory, infrastructural, and market framework for sector development. It all sounds serious, but the question is how much of it will actually be realized.
Who’s Behind the Program?
The draft program was developed with support from a German international cooperation organization and implemented by a highly qualified consulting team. This means Montenegro is not alone in this endeavor but has European backing.
The document’s adoption is planned for the end of this year as part of Montenegro’s commitments to the Western Balkans Green Agenda, the Sofia Declaration, and the Paris Agreement.
But Where’s the Money and Who Will Foot the Bill?
All this sounds great, but developing green hydrogen is not cheap. Massive state support, investments, and strengthening domestic production to reduce costs are needed.
Does Montenegro have the capacity and will to invest in this project? Or will it all remain at the level of nice words and plans?
Conclusion – Revolution or Empty Promise?
Green hydrogen is definitely the energy of the future and can significantly contribute to decarbonizing sectors that are hard to electrify, like heavy industry and transport. Montenegro has potential but also big challenges.
Will Montenegro be an active player in the European energy transition or just another spectator? Time will tell.
Meanwhile, as we wait to see if plans turn into action, feel free to share your thoughts – do you believe in green hydrogen, or do you think it’s just another eco-fairy tale? Maybe your joke or comment will spark the real revolution!
This article is based on available official information and contains no fabrications.
