Jugopetrol AD, today operating under the brand EKO, is one of the leading petrol distributers in Montenegro. The company operates 46 petrol stations throughout the country and provides a range of supplementary services for customers, such as car washing stations.
While car washes are a familiar part of everyday life, those located in Montenegro’s central and southern regions face increasing challenges. A team of three Energy Scouts — Neđeljko Kustudić, Marko Ćulafić and Mirjana Delibašić — observed that prolonged droughts and water restrictions frequently disrupt operations during the summer months. Traditional washing methods consume large volumes of water, and although modern recycling systems reduce water usage, they often require more electricity. This additional demand of electricity is ideally satisfied by renewable sources. The Energy Scouts identified opportunities for modernization and upgrades at the companies’ car washing stations to improve energy efficiency and reduce water consumption. Following their initiative, five car wash locations will be upgraded, and the results will be monitored. Water recycling systems that can save up to 85% of water per wash will be installed alongside renewable energy sources, including 57.5 kW of solar panels and two 5 kW wind turbines. These improvements will ensure uninterrupted service, even during the driest months, while significantly reducing the environmental impact of each car wash.
Across all five sites, the project is expected to save an impressive amount of 401 MWh of electricity and 25,500 cubic meters of water annually. Additionally, it will reduce CO₂ emissions by over 189 tons per year, easing pressure on both the environment and the national electricity grid. With projected annual savings exceeding €51,500, the €350,000 investment is expected to pay off within seven years. Beyond that, reduced operating costs and sustainable performance offer long-term value for both the company and the community, showcasing the project’s significant environmental and financial benefits.
By combining renewable energy with smart water management, Jugopetrol’s car wash operations will not only ensure business continuity during challenging times, but also contribute to a cleaner and greener future of Montenegro.
Photovoltaics
Water
Consumption
- Industry sector: Energy – oil company, non- fuel retail segment
- Energy source: Electricity, water
- Energy savings potential: For 5 locations 401 MWh/year, water 25.500m3 per year
- CO2 savings potential: 189 t CO2 /year
- Potential cost reduction: 51,500 €/year
- Investment costs: 350,000 €
- Payback period: 7 years
- Company:
Jugopetrol AD
81000 Podgorica
Crna Gora
Montenegro
https://www.jugopetrol.co.me/en/
