Serbia is advancing a multi-phase investment program aimed at strengthening its natural gas infrastructure, with an emphasis on diversifying supply routes and improving long-term energy security. The plans were presented by Mining and Energy Minister Dubravka Đedovic during discussions with World Bank Country Manager for Serbia Nicola Pontara. The meeting focused on major gas sector projects and related technical work.
New interconnections with North Macedonia and Romania
A key element of the strategy is the construction of new gas interconnections with neighboring countries. Gas links with North Macedonia and Romania are expected to be completed within the next two years. The Minister said the connections are intended to provide access to additional gas sources and transit corridors while improving resilience to potential supply disruptions.
The discussions also covered how the planned interconnections would fit into broader system reliability measures. Minister Đedovic highlighted that the next steps depend on modernization of domestic infrastructure. The World Bank’s role was discussed in connection with financing and technical preparation for the program.
Nis–Velika Plana pipeline and follow-on storage projects
The first phase of the investment program will focus on building the Nis–Velika Plana gas pipeline. It will also include preparation of technical documentation for future projects. Subsequent phases are expected to involve expansion of existing underground gas storage facilities.
Later phases are also expected to cover development of new storage capacities and supporting pipeline infrastructure. In addition, a new gas connection between Mokrin and Belgrade is planned as part of the multi-phase approach. These elements are intended to support operational flexibility across Serbia’s gas system.
Hydrogen studies and upgrades to transmission capacity
The initiative includes an assessment of the future role of hydrogen in Serbia’s energy system. Planned technical studies will examine whether existing and future gas infrastructure can support hydrogen transportation as part of the broader energy transition and decarbonization process. The work is framed around compatibility with infrastructure planned under the gas expansion program.
Minister Đedovic said World Bank support will be important for modernizing Serbia’s domestic gas transmission network. She also cited increasing storage capacity and developing additional compressor stations as priorities linked to the program. According to her, these investments are intended to help maximize benefits from international interconnections.
Financing arrangements and technical working groups
The meeting addressed preparations for securing World Bank financing for the next steps in the program. It also included plans to establish expert working groups and launch required technical studies. Pontara welcomed continued cooperation with the Serbian Government on gas infrastructure development.
