The Serbian state-owned power utility, EPS, has commenced the trial operation of a significant flue gas desulfurization system at the Nikola Tesla B (TENT B) thermal power plant located in Obrenovac. This initiative is a crucial component of Serbia’s broader strategy to modernize its largest coal-fired electricity generation facility and align with European Union environmental standards.
This project represents a substantial investment in environmental technology within the regional electricity sector, with expectations to significantly cut emissions from one of Serbia’s primary sources of electricity. Officials have indicated that the implementation of this system will ensure that the country’s major thermal power capacities adhere not only to national regulations but also to stringent European environmental protocols.
According to Serbian Mining and Energy Minister Dubravka Đedović, the introduction of this desulfurization system is projected to reduce sulfur dioxide emissions at TENT B by as much as 30 times once fully operational. She mentioned that current particulate emissions are already maintained below required thresholds. The total investment in desulfurization systems for both TENT A and TENT B has exceeded 420 million euros, with anticipated environmental benefits extending beyond Obrenovac to impact Belgrade and its neighboring regions.
EPS Director Dušan Živković highlighted that the desulfurization facility at TENT B alone necessitated an investment of approximately 250 million euros. This project was realized through collaboration with both Japanese and domestic partners, including Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, which played a key role in executing the works. The technology employed utilizes a wet limestone process for flue gas cleaning, effectively removing sulfur compounds from exhaust emissions.
An additional advantage of this process is the generation of gypsum as a by-product. EPS has reported that the gypsum produced at TENT B meets European quality standards, with an expected annual output of around 200,000 tons. This aspect not only contributes to reducing industrial waste but also supports circular economy initiatives within the region.
In addition to these environmental enhancements, EPS underscores that this investment bolsters the long-term operational reliability of Serbia’s electricity infrastructure, thereby improving efficiency and extending the operational lifespan of TENT B.
