The Public Call for Encouraging Innovations in the function of Energy Efficiency in Industry was open from 22 September to 31 October 2023 and received 15 applications. Of these, 14 applications were submitted for evaluation, which was conducted in two phases. In the first phase, nine projects received positive assessments and were subsequently referred to technical consultants for the preparation of feasibility studies. The Expert Commission then carried out the second phase of the evaluation, assessing the complete project documentation, including budgets and feasibility studies. Following the second round of evaluation, two applications were rejected.
In accordance with the Fund’s procedures, the final funding decision was made based on the proposed ranking list, following budget negotiations and verification that all administrative requirements for contract signing had been fulfilled. The total budget allocated to this call amounted to EUR 2.5 million, including evaluation costs, and seven projects were selected for funding.
The Program for Encouraging Innovations to Improve Energy Efficiency in Industry was launched through the cooperation of the Ministry of Economic Development, the Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation, and the Ministry of Energy, while its implementation is overseen by the Fund.
The objective of the program is to improve energy efficiency in the manufacturing sector through the application of modern technologies. The program represents a synergy of innovation, industrial, and energy policies and is fully aligned with the priorities of the Smart Specialisation Strategy (S3).
Fund recipients
Project name
Procurement of a new hot-air boiler”
Project description
The project aims to procure and install a modern hot-air furnace for pellet production. The new system will use renewable biomass fuel, such as clean wood chips, significantly improving energy efficiency in the production process. In addition, the project includes on-the-job training for employees to develop the skills needed for efficient operation and energy management. This will support the company’s long-term sustainability and competitiveness.
Project name
Improving Energy Efficiency in a Dairy Processing Plant
Project description
The overall objective of the project is to procure and install a rooftop photovoltaic system, together with the supply and installation of the necessary equipment and the development and implementation of a Manufacturing Execution System (MES). This will significantly improve the facility's energy efficiency by enabling on-site electricity generation to meet its own energy needs. The project also includes training for existing employees, as well as two newly recruited staff members, to support the implementation of the new smart solutions as an integral part of the project activities.
Project name
The project envisages the modernisation of the production process through automation and the implementation of SMART technologies.
Project description
This will be achieved through the acquisition of a double-head cutting machine with an electronic control system and a profile trimming machine. In addition, a significant share of the company's electricity consumption will be covered by the installation of a solar power plant. The project also includes the recruitment of two new employees who will be responsible for energy management.
Project name
Smart Energy Management for a Sustainable Economy
Project description
The project's ultimate objective is to improve energy efficiency in the production process and increase resource utilisation. This will be achieved through the replacement of existing production line machinery, as well as the procurement and installation of an automated finger-jointing line, a ventilation system for production equipment, a briquetting press, variable frequency drives for electric motors, and a system for monitoring and optimising electricity consumption. In addition to these technical upgrades, the project includes the recruitment of two new employees who will be responsible for energy management within the production process.
Project name
Montenegro Green Manufacturing: Leading Through Innovation and Efficiency
Project description
The purpose of this project is to procure and install CNC machines that will improve energy efficiency and increase the use of renewable energy sources through the implementation of smart and digital solutions. The project includes the acquisition of a computer-controlled CNC lathe, a CNC tool presetting machine with additional equipment, and the SolidWorks and SolidCAM software packages. In addition to the technical equipment, the project includes employee training for the practical use of the software and machinery, as well as specialised training aimed at improving compliance with the EN ISO 50001 standard, thereby contributing to higher levels of energy efficiency in manufacturing processes.
Project name
INODO – Introduction of New Processing Technology and Energy Efficiency Measures
Project description
The project aims to modernise the production process and reduce electricity consumption through the acquisition of a CNC-controlled automatic circular saw blade sharpening machine, an edge banding machine, and the design and installation of a solar power plant. The project will also create two new jobs for employees responsible for energy management.
Project name
WinEEnergy
Project description
The project aims to modernise the industrial process of grape wine production by introducing energy-efficient technologies. The project includes the recruitment of two new employees and the acquisition of a monoblock machine to automate production and increase wine packaging speed, the purchase of a mini laboratory for sample analysis, and the installation of a solar power plant. These measures will significantly improve the efficiency and sustainability of the production process.
