Serbia has received its first technical study on the peaceful use of nuclear energy, exploring two options: traditional nuclear power plants and small modular reactors (SMRs). While SMRs are still under development, traditional plants offer economies of scale; SMRs provide flexibility, modularity, and lower investment costs.
The study indicates nuclear energy could be integrated into Serbia’s existing power grid within 15 to 20 years. Preparation for nuclear construction requires 5 to 7 years of phased work following International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) guidelines, including further studies and establishing a governing body for the nuclear program. Serbia is currently forming this body within its Ministry of Mining and Energy, focusing heavily on training specialized personnel, with an estimated overall cost of around €30 million.
France’s EDF is involved in the initial technical study, and Serbia has a cooperation agreement with the French government for early-stage nuclear program preparation. Other experienced partners considered include South Korea and Russia. Serbia plans to sign a cooperation agreement with South Korea within two months, aiming to evaluate partnerships from multiple countries before finalizing technology and collaborators.
Minister Dubravka Đedović Handanović emphasized the growing energy demand in Serbia and globally requires stable, long-term base energy solutions. While renewable sources are important, their variability and limited capacity make nuclear energy a key option, offering 80 to 90 years of operational life with significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels.
She also highlighted Serbia’s progress in renewable energy projects, including the opening of the first solar park owned by the Serbian Electric Power Industry (EPS) and the near completion of the Kostolac wind farm, both supporting green energy for around 35,000 households. Another key project is the reversible hydroelectric plant “Bistrica,” aimed at improving renewable energy utilization and enhancing energy security, currently in final stages with support from the Japanese International Cooperation Agency.
Regarding coal production, Serbia stabilized and increased output by 7% in the first half of the year, reducing imports. Investments are ongoing to open new mines and upgrade equipment to maintain continuous production, with imports serving as a reserve and to improve coal quality for more efficient thermal power plants.
Minister Đedović Handanović also addressed US sanctions affecting the Serbian Oil Industry (NIS), expressing commitment to ongoing dialogue aimed at preventing these sanctions from taking effect and increasing energy reserves.
