Renewables Deal in Montenegro: Masdar and state utility EPCG have moved their 2 GW partnership into execution, signing agreements for 150 MW of solar (Štedim 115 MW and Krupac 35 MW) and a framework to explore 400+ MW of pumped hydro storage, aiming to boost grid flexibility and support future exports. Grid Modernisation Financing: Montenegro’s transmission operator CGES secured a €25m AFD-backed loan (with state guarantee) to modernise Perućica and Pljevlja 2 substations, enabling up to 350 MW of hydropower integration and strengthening links to the Trans-Balkan network. Solar Pipeline Progress: Qair won a building permit for its 50 MW Rudine solar project in Nikšić, following grid-connection approval, with construction expected in the coming years. Energy Sector Procurement Pressure: Bulgaria’s electrical engineering association BASEL warns that record metal prices and fixed-price public tenders are threatening maintenance of thermal and hydropower plants and the electricity transmission network, calling for procurement rule changes. Local Infrastructure Investment: Montenegro’s telecom operators invested €71.44m in network development and high-speed services through 2025, despite a dip from 2024’s peak. Aviation/Training Link: Bell delivered its 700th Bell 505 at Farnborough, noting the type’s use as a training platform including in Montenegro. Public Safety Aviation: Sarajevo Canton unveiled a Bell 412 EPX and a new helicopter unit for policing, medical transport, firefighting and rescue. Industry & Society Watch: A report on Reform UK funding claims a crypto-linked donor living in Montenegro sent $2m to his mother ahead of donations, with UK police investigating possible source-disguise.