Transforming primary school “Lovćenski Partizanski Odred”
Energy efficiency and infrastructure upgrades in Cetinje, Montenegro
Front view of the school | Photo: Municipality of Cetinje
Revitalizing an essential community hub
The Primary School "Lovćenski Partizanski Odred" in Cetinje, Montenegro, has been a cornerstone of education in the community since 2004. Serving 600 students, the school building was constructed as part of a larger plan, which, due to budget limitations, was only partially completed. While the main building was in use, the absence of a sports hall and outdoor facilities, combined with outdated infrastructure, hindered the learning experience.
In 2018, a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Education, Science, and Innovation and the Old Royal Capital Cetinje set out to change this. The joint venture aimed to upgrade the school with a new sports hall, enhanced outdoor spaces, and significant energy efficiency improvements, ensuring a safer, more sustainable environment. This transformation, strengthened by Connective Cities' knowledge-sharing platform, showcases the power of international collaboration in advancing sustainable urban development.
Connective Cities learning process and knowledge exchange
The Connective Cities network, which fosters sustainable urban practices through peer learning and collaboration, has been an invaluable resource in the transformation of Cetinje's schools. In October 2023, representatives from Cetinje—Marija Mrvaljević, the City Chief Architect, and Marija Proročić, Secretary for Spatial Planning and Environmental Protection—participated in the Connective Cities Learning Process on Renewable Energy Options at the Municipal Level, in Tbilisi, Georgia. During this event, they presented the school renovation project, gaining valuable insights and technical expertise from other European and German cities facing similar urban challenges. This exchange has been essential in adapting the project to international standards of energy efficiency and sustainable design.
Through the Connective Cities platform, Cetinje has successfully integrated key renewable energy solutions into the renovation of local schools. The municipality installed solar energy systems on school buildings, significantly improving energy efficiency and reducing electricity costs. Additionally, energy-efficient lighting and enhanced insulation were implemented to further decrease energy consumption. These initiatives not only advance Cetinje’s sustainability objectives but also serve as a model for other municipalities seeking to implement similar solutions.
Preparing the thermal insulation on the exterior façade | Photo: Municipality of Cetinje
The project's goal: creating a austainable, accessible learning environment
The project aims to create an energy-efficient, healthy learning environment in Montenegro, designed to withstand both cold winters and warm summers. Energy efficiency is a key priority, with renewable energy sources, including solar panels and heat pumps, planned to reduce operating costs and environmental impact. Currently, the school is set to use wood pellet heating, but heat pumps for the sports hall and a solar energy system on the roof are also planned. Final decisions on these systems will be made by the Ministry, and the evaluation process is still ongoing.
Additionally, the new sports hall will address the long-standing need for indoor sports and physical education facilities. This structure, connected to the main school building, will follow strict energy efficiency standards. The project also ensures accessibility for students with disabilities, aligning with current regulations and creating a more inclusive environment.
Progress and partnership with KfW bank
In 2024, the project received significant support through the "Promotion of Energy Efficiency in Public Buildings – Greening Public Infrastructure in Montenegro" (PEEPB) initiative. This program, funded by the Ministry of Energy and the KfW Bank of Germany, allocated €9.6 million (excluding VAT) for the upgrade of several public buildings in Montenegro, precisely four school buildings. This initiative is part of a broader plan to enhance energy efficiency across these schools, with the funding aimed at creating a more sustainable, energy-efficient environment, reducing operational costs, and minimizing environmental impact.
Renovation efforts began in August 2024, focusing on roof insulation, a new façade, energy-efficient windows, and upgrades to flooring, lighting, and heating systems. The first phase, expected to be completed by the end of 2024, will deliver a modern, eco-friendly building for students and staff alike.
Roof insulation and new roof covering (left) | New windows and floor renovation (right) | Photo: Municipality of Cetinje
Temporary relocation of students
To accommodate the renovations, the 600 students have been temporarily relocated to other schools in Cetinje. This arrangement ensures uninterrupted learning during the construction process and reflects the project team’s commitment to minimizing disruption for the students and their families.
The second phase: building a modern sports hall and schoolyard
The second phase will kick off in 2025, focusing on constructing a new sports hall and upgrading the schoolyard. This hall will provide much-needed facilities for physical education classes, extracurricular sports, and community events. Designed with energy efficiency in mind, it will meet all modern standards for sustainable construction, providing a versatile space for students' physical development. This phase is expected to be completed by 2026, enhancing the overall campus experience for students and staff.
Sustainability at the core
Sustainability is a key focus of this project. In addition to structural upgrades, the school’s façade will be retrofitted with thermal insulation, and all windows and doors will be replaced with high-efficiency alternatives. LED lighting will be installed throughout, reducing energy consumption, while new equipment will help decrease water usage. Solar panels and heat pumps are planned for a future phase, providing renewable energy for the school’s heating needs.
New sanitary facilities help to reduce water consumption. | Photo: Municipality of Cetinje
The project also includes passive cooling measures, although these have not been implemented in this phase. Large glass surfaces will be fitted with removable shades, and improvements in natural ventilation will enhance indoor air quality and comfort throughout the year.
Conclusion: a model for sustainable development in education
The renovation of the Primary School "Lovćenski Partizanski Odred" in Cetinje exemplifies the impact of collaboration, knowledge exchange, and sustainable urban development. With support from Connective Cities, KfW Bank, and local stakeholders, the school will soon offer a safe, accessible, and energy-efficient learning environment for 600 students.
By the end of 2026, the school will set a new benchmark for public building sustainability in Montenegro. This project not only addresses immediate community needs but also demonstrates how municipalities can work together to create a brighter, greener future for educational infrastructure.
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