The Montenegrin Electricity Distribution System has launched Phase III of the Distribution Metering System Upgrade Project, replacing existing meters with new electronic meters. The third phase involves installing 45,000 new multifunctional meters by January 2019: 14,800 meters in the central region, 18,000 in the coastal region and around 12,000 in the northern region.
The project began in December 2011, and around 250,000 meters have been installed since then, bringing approximately 70 per cent of electricity distribution network users into the remote meter-reading system. The implementation of this strategic project for CEDIS has helped transform the electricity distribution network into a modern and more energy-efficient system. The project involves not only replacing old meters with new ones, but also reconstructing the network and equipment, significantly improving the quality and security of electricity supply and reducing network losses in transformer station areas connected to the remote meter-reading system.
This phase of the Project is also financed by a €32 million loan from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. The implementation of this investment will make Montenegro the first country in which the EBRD operates to have met EU targets for the coverage of modern meters, with at least 80 per cent of users covered. Once the project is completed, CO2 emissions are expected to fall by more than 86,000 tonnes per year.
CEDIS will store and further process the dismantled meters in accordance with waste management regulations. It is important to note that the provisions of the Waste Management Law were observed during the previous project phases. Since the project began, a total of 268,140 kg of waste has been handed over, with its cross-border movement monitored and supervised by the Environmental Inspectorate.
The replacement of old devices with modern ones, the relocation of metering points and the delivery of installation equipment have also been entrusted, for Phase III, to a consortium comprising Germany’s REGIOCOM, Poland’s SAKSPOL and Montenegro’s MEZON d.o.o. from Danilovgrad.
The new meters enable automated, simpler and faster measurement of consumption, allowing for better control of supply and consumption, as well as monitoring of voltage levels on the electricity distribution network, while users can accurately view their current consumption.
CEDIS will inform users in a timely manner about scheduled power outages for meter installation through its regular media announcements of planned works. In addition, posters stating the date and time of meter installation will be displayed in visible locations before the work begins. Users will also be notified of the outage by SMS, and we will distribute brochures containing information about the new meter’s functions, as well as explanations of the data it provides. All information will also be available on our website and Facebook page.
