State-controlled coal producer Rudnik uglja Pljevlja has moved its leased asphalt plant into commercial operation as part of an effort to diversify the local economy ahead of the gradual transition away from coal.
The company leased the facility in the village of Bušnje from the bankruptcy administration of Vektra Jakić for €10.7 million. Commercial production began in May 2026, following trial operations and equipment repairs during the previous year.
The plant has produced approximately 3,500 tonnes of asphalt, including around 2,000 tonnes since May. Products are priced between €83.35 and €93.06 per tonne, excluding VAT, depending on the asphalt type, thickness and related costs.
Production has mainly served Rudnik uglja’s internal requirements, although the company has also undertaken work for third parties. Projects include road construction in Kalušići and the paving of several locations in Pljevlja.
The commercial case remains difficult to assess because Rudnik uglja has not disclosed operating revenue, expenditure, utilisation rates or whether the plant is profitable. The company expects to present the first complete financial results at the end of 2026.
Even at the upper quoted selling price, total production of 3,500 tonnes would represent gross theoretical revenue of only about €326,000, before VAT and assuming all production was sold externally. In practice, much of the output was used internally, making conventional revenue comparisons less meaningful.
The project is intended to preserve employment and create a new business line as Pljevlja prepares for a lower-coal future. Its investment value will ultimately depend on sustained external demand, competitive production costs and transparent financial reporting rather than the volume used for Rudnik uglja’s own roadworks.
