In a significant shift in energy policy, Serbia has lifted its long-standing ban on nuclear power plants, marking a pivotal moment in its energy landscape. This decision opens avenues for both national and international partnerships aimed at assessing the viability of a nuclear energy program, which could play a crucial role in diversifying the country’s energy mix.
Minister of Mining and Energy Dubravka Đedovic announced that Serbia has formally requested grant funding from the French Development Agency to support preliminary studies as part of its nuclear roadmap. These funds will facilitate essential technical and preparatory analyses necessary prior to making any investment decisions. Furthermore, Đedovic indicated that formal collaboration with the French utility EDF is set to expand in March, coinciding with the establishment of a national body responsible for implementing the nuclear initiative, expected to be finalized by the end of the month.
The government is currently in the early stages of defining its nuclear ambitions, emphasizing the importance of long-term energy planning. The overarching goal is to ensure system stability for decades, aligning with the Energy Development Strategy through 2040, which includes projections extending to 2050. The involvement of universities, local experts, and international partners will be critical in shaping the next steps of this initiative. A preliminary study conducted in collaboration with EDF identified 19 key measures that adhere to IAEA standards, laying the groundwork for Serbia’s initial nuclear framework.
In parallel developments, Dušan Živković, Director of state-owned utility EPS, emphasized that his organization will play a central role in maintaining national energy security throughout this transition period. He highlighted that approximately 4 GW of fossil fuel-based capacity will require replacement over time and confirmed EPS’s commitment to exploring the peaceful use of nuclear energy. The expertise offered by EDF is viewed as particularly beneficial for Serbia’s strategic planning moving forward.
