Serbia’s Mining and Energy Minister Dubravka Đedović Handanović met last Tuesday (20 February) with France’s Ambassador to Serbia Pierre Košar to discuss bilateral cooperation in the field of energy.
Both sides discussed the modernisation of the transmission network, potential collaboration in the hydro sector, and diversification of gas supply sources. Minister Đedović Handanović emphasised the success of last year’s renewables auctions, conducted digitally and in accordance with EU standards, resulting in almost complete capacity distribution.
“In the upcoming period, we will invest around 400 million euros in the revitalisation of hydroelectric power plants Potpeć, Vlasinske, Bistrica, and Đerdap 2 to extend their lifespan and increase capacity. Part of these projects is financed through the Investment Framework for the Western Balkans. EPS [state-owned power operator] will complete the Kostolac wind farm in the first half of next year, a crucial milestone for our largest company, as this will be the first EPS project in wind energy,” the minister highlighted.
Minister Đedović Handanović highlighted that Serbia’s Strategy for the Management of Mineral and Other Geological Resources document is expected to be completed this year.
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Additionally, the minister noted that public consultations on the draft of the country’s Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan have concluded and is ready for adoption. The defined goals in the plan aim at achieving 45 per cent of electricity production from renewables, reducing CO2 emissions by 40.3 per cent compared to 1990, and significantly increasing energy efficiency.
“France and our energy companies are partners with Serbia on the path of energy transition. We are aware of the ambitious goals you have defined through the Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan, and we are ready to support projects in the field of renewable energy sources and provide technical support through various projects, knowledge exchange, and experience,” Ambassador Košar said.
Both sides also discussed the potential role of small modular reactors (SMRs) in Serbia’s energy transition. Minister Đedović Handanović stated that it is necessary to consider alternatives that would ensure energy stability in the green transition process and meet Serbia’s growing energy needs in the coming years.
