Six companies have expressed interest in the Đerdap 3 pumped-storage hydropower project, while six companies submitted expressions of interest for the development of Serbia’s planned Đerdap 3 pumped-storage hydropower plant, according to Minister of Mining and Energy Dubravka Đedović. The application deadline was 25 June. After the deadline, submitted proposals will move to a qualification review to determine which candidates meet the required criteria.
Đerdap 3 feasibility study and role in system flexibility
Đedović described HPP Đerdap 3 as Serbia’s largest planned hydropower investment. She said the project is strategically important for the country’s future electricity system. The feasibility study has already been completed, and development is focused on long-term operational reliability, system flexibility, and energy security.
Pumped-storage hydropower plants are increasingly relevant as renewable generation expands. They can store electricity during periods of surplus supply and release it during peak demand hours. For Serbia, Djerdap 3 is expected to function as a flexibility asset supporting the integration of variable renewable sources such as wind and solar.
Selection framework under Serbia–United States cooperation
The selection process is handled by a government working group established under an intergovernmental cooperation agreement between Serbia and the United States. The planned investment for Đerdap 3 is estimated at more than €2.63 billion. Đedović said this places the project among the largest energy infrastructure developments currently planned in Serbia.
Bistrica pumped-storage update and construction timeline
Đedović also updated on the Bistrica hydropower plant, another pumped-storage project. Preparatory activities are expected to begin later this year. Construction of the main facilities is planned to start in 2027.
The minister linked both projects to Serbia’s broader approach to improving grid stability and supporting renewable-energy integration. She also cited long-term security of electricity supply as the power system undergoes significant transformation. The updates were provided in the context of expanding flexible generation and storage capacity.
