Renewables Deal in Montenegro: Masdar and state utility EPCG have moved their 2 GW clean-energy partnership into execution, signing agreements for 150 MW of solar (Štedim 115 MW and Krupac 35 MW) and exploring 400+ MW of pumped-hydro storage, with a target portfolio up to 2 GW to boost energy security and future exports. Grid Modernisation: Montenegro’s transmission system operator CGES signed a €25m AFD-backed loan (with state guarantee) to modernise Perućica and Pljevlja 2 substations, supporting up to 350 MW of hydropower integration and strengthening links with the Trans-Balkan network. New Solar Permit: Qair secured the building permit for its 50 MW Rudine solar project in Nikšić, following grid-connection approval, as it pushes a wider 250 MW pipeline and storage options. Energy Policy Context: Serbia signed an EDF/AFD partnership to lay groundwork for a nuclear programme, while AFD also backs Montenegro’s power-system upgrades. Industry & Infrastructure Watch: Montenegro’s telecom operators invested €71.44m in network development and high-speed services through 2025, keeping capex elevated despite a dip from 2024. EU Integration Push: Austria’s S3 chairmanship work program prioritises Western Balkan EU enlargement, energy security, transport connectivity, digitalisation, and cutting bureaucracy. Public Safety Aviation: Sarajevo Canton unveiled a Bell 412 EPX helicopter and a new helicopter unit, trained partly in Montenegro, for security, medical transport, firefighting and rescue. Wildfire Pressure on Europe: Satellite data shows Europe’s 2026 wildfire season is already burning over 250,000 hectares, with major impacts on tourism and local industry.