The government of Robert Golob recently approved a project to subsidise electric vehicles and energy efficiency in Montenegro, which will receive 1.5 million euros from the Climate Fund by the end of 2026, reports the media outlet Forbes. Meanwhile, we are facing delays and a lack of funding for important projects at home, while the government seems to be paying considerable attention to financing projects abroad.
This raises the question of whether Slovenia’s priorities in the management of environmental funds are set appropriately. In addition to subsidies in Montenegro coming from funds that could be used domestically, the government is simultaneously supporting other projects abroad, such as funding for beekeeping in Kenya and energy efficiency improvements in North Macedonia.
Ten million euros for projects abroad
The Climate Fund, which is financed through the sale of emission allowances and is designed to mitigate climate change, is the main source of funding for green transition measures in Slovenia. The government has earmarked 850 million euros for the period of up to 2026, including 10.5 million euros for projects abroad.
By comparison, domestic energy renovation of buildings will receive 100 million euros, just ten times the amount for international projects, according to Forbes. The Ministry of the Environment, Climate and Energy sees such projects as key to deepening relations and supporting the European Union’s enlargement to the Western Balkans.
While Slovenia subsidises the purchase of electric vehicles in Montenegro, domestic funding for subsidies is limited. The Montenegrin project foresees 16 calls for tenders to promote electric mobility and energy efficiency, where users will be able to apply for subsidies similar to those available here. However, the total value of the subsidies will only allow the purchase of up to 200 electric cars, which raises the question of the feasibility of a project with such a limited impact.
On the other hand, Slovenian green transition projects often face financial obstacles or delays.
Sara Kovač
