Achieve Energy Efficient Living with the EBRD-GEFF Programme
In recent years, energy prices across Europe, Montenegro included, have risen steadily. Cold winters, uncertainty and cashing out dizzying amounts on electricity and gas bills, the adverse effect all this has had on air quality, are all alarming issues. Producing our own energy and turning our homes into energy efficient spaces may very well be the solution we need to reduce our electricity bills while at the same time reducing environmental pollution.
How can we generate electricity for our household by ourselves?
Over the period of one year Montenegro often has over 240 sunny days, thus the use of solar systems is the most ideal, most efficient and cleanest way to obtain energy. The intensity of solar radiation is among the highest in Europe, which creates ideal conditions for a serious energy transition by introducing solar thermal collectors and photovoltaic systems in households. A private individual can drastically reduce the energy consumption of their household as well as achieve significant savings by introducing a solar system. Not only this, they can also become an energy producer.
Photovoltaic systems (solar panels)
Photovoltaic systems are composed of a series of photovoltaic cells and can be used in larger photovoltaic systems to produce electricity.
Solar radiation that reaches the solar panel is converted into direct current electricity. The amount of electricity that a solar panel can produce depends on its power, where it is installed and the number of hours of sunshine.
The key advantages of photovoltaic systems are: low maintenance costs, easy installation, energy independence and absence of noise.
In 2020, Montenegrin legislation enabled the installation of photovoltaic systems. The current Law on Energy and the Law on Spatial Planning and Construction in Montenegro define the conditions that need to be met in order for a photovoltaic system to be built. For photovoltaic systems with installed capacities of up to 10 kW, which are classified as auxiliary facilities, it is necessary to prepare a technical (conceptual) solution for the photovoltaic system and this document is not subject to revision/audit.
Solar thermal collectors (solar water heaters)
Solar thermal collectors collect heat by absorbing solar radiation, they do not produce electricity. Solar thermal collectors are usually used in households to produce Domestic Hot Water, reheat and/or possibly heat space, and are more efficient than photovoltaic systems (utilisation of solar radiation). The key benefits of solar thermal collectors are: ability to operate in high temperatures, high efficiency.
Installed solar thermal collectors enable energy production by producing Domestic Hot Water for the needs of one home, at absolutely no cost. In this way, approx. 60% of a household’s hot water needs are covered annually and the emission of harmful gases produced by conventional energy sources is reduced by the same amount. Energy savings are huge. For example, a 1m2 solar collector saves roughly 750 kWh of energy per year.
Where can I find the financial support I need to have a solar system or other green technologies installed in my home?
The EBRD-GEFF Programme in the Western Balkans secures funds for household investments in energy efficient technologies. This includes the installation of photovoltaic systems and solar thermal collectors, but also heat pumps, PVC windows and doors, and thermal insulation. Furthermore, the programme supports household investments in green technologies, as it includes EU incentives of up to 20%.
For a rough estimate of the potential savings which may be generated by installing energy efficient technologies in your home, the EBRD-GEFF Programme has developed an online Energy Savings Calculator. In addition to savings, the Calculator offers information on how certain activities affect greenhouse gas emissions.
The GEFF Programme offers an online catalogue of energy efficient products called the Technology Selector is available where potential lenders can review energy efficient products of interest. All of the products available here offer energy efficiency that is 20% above that offered by standard products. All products are inspected and approved by independent engineers hired by the EBRD.
GEFF financing in Montenegro takes place through a local financial partner institution – CKB Bank, which is a leader in our country in terms of the promotion, investment, and use of renewable energy sources.
GEFF is implemented throughout the Western Balkans through the WB Regional Energy Efficiency Programme (REEP Plus), funded by the European Union, and implemented in cooperation with the Energy Community Secretariat. The Technical Cooperation Programme available through this credit line is supported by the Federal Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Austria and the Western Balkans Investment Framework.