
In recent years, solar energy storage systems (ESS) have become a cornerstone of off-grid and hybrid energy solutions in remote regions. This case study highlights the transformative impact of deploying a commercial solar ESS solution in a remote business complex in Montenegro.
The site, located on the outskirts of Pljevlja in northern Montenegro, consisted of a small industrial park housing a logistics center, a cold storage warehouse, and a packaging facility. These businesses had been facing regular power disruptions due to limited grid reliability and growing energy demand. Fuel-powered backup generators were costly, noisy, and polluting, which further strained the operations.
In late 2024, a joint initiative between YTElect and a regional energy cooperative led to the installation of a commercial-grade solar ESS system to enhance energy independence and operational stability. The goal was not only to stabilize electricity supply but also to set an example for other SMEs in the region seeking sustainable energy solutions.
The deployed solution included:
180 kW rooftop solar PV array across three buildings
215 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery storage system
Three-phase hybrid inverters to handle variable loads
Energy management system (EMS) for predictive analytics and smart dispatching
The ESS was designed to provide peak shaving, load shifting, and up to 24 hours of backup power for critical systems. The EMS software was integrated with smart meters, enabling facility managers to track consumption patterns and optimize load scheduling.
The project encountered several hurdles:
Integration with existing building infrastructure required custom electrical configurations.
High variability in energy usage across different businesses demanded dynamic load prioritization.
Compliance with EU safety and grid standards required extensive testing and certification.
Seasonal weather conditions in northern Montenegro, including long winters, required optimized PV tilt angles and robust battery insulation.
YTElect engineers used adaptive EMS algorithms and real-time monitoring to fine-tune the system performance. A local workforce was trained to handle basic maintenance, ensuring sustainability beyond the installation phase.
Three months after installation, the complex reported:
70% reduction in electricity costs through self-consumption and peak demand management
Zero unplanned downtime during power interruptions
Increased equipment life expectancy due to voltage stabilization
New revenue stream by selling surplus energy to the grid
The logistics center and cold storage unit both achieved ISO 50001 energy efficiency certification, showcasing their commitment to sustainability. Additionally, employees benefited from a more stable work environment, with uninterrupted power supporting refrigeration systems, IT equipment, and production lines.
From an environmental perspective, the project resulted in an annual reduction of 120 metric tons of CO₂ emissions, equivalent to planting nearly 5,000 trees. The ESS solution demonstrated that commercial facilities in semi-rural regions can contribute meaningfully to Montenegro’s renewable energy targets.
The Pljevlja case underlines the importance of tailored ESS solutions for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Unlike large-scale solar farms, commercial installations must strike a balance between cost, scalability, and operational flexibility. Key takeaways include:
ESS investments can pay back within 5–7 years when paired with dynamic energy markets.
Combining rooftop PV and battery storage provides resilience against both grid unreliability and rising energy prices.
Community engagement and local training ensure smoother adoption and long-term system sustainability.
The Pljevlja industrial park project demonstrates the scalability and effectiveness of commercial solar ESS in remote or under-grid regions. By optimizing energy use and ensuring reliable power, such systems support economic growth while reducing environmental impact.
YTElect continues to pioneer ESS solutions tailored for diverse business environments across Europe and beyond, with plans to replicate similar projects in the Balkans and Eastern Europe. As renewable technologies mature, solar ESS is poised to become a critical enabler of sustainable industrial growth in underserved areas. yy
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