When the European Commission allocated €2 billion in grants and €4 billion in soft loans for infrastructure and Green Agenda projects under the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, Serbia was expected to receive the largest share—over €1.7 billion. However, despite expectations of a quick transfer, the funds have not yet arrived, reports RTS.
In March, Serbia requested 7% of the approved funds as pre-financing—€111.8 million—but the money has not yet been credited to the state account. Minister for European Integration Nemanja Starović stated that technical procedures for payment are underway and funds are expected soon.
Serbia has fully implemented four of seven reform steps required under the plan, including harmonization of visa policies, anti-corruption strategies, 5G network regulations, and integration into the EU electricity market. Experts emphasize the importance of public understanding of these reforms as a platform for faster EU accession and access to financial incentives.
Eleven projects are slated for financing. Key initiatives include:
- Introduction of renewable energy into Novi Sad’s district heating system
- Reconstruction and upgrade of the “Potpeć” hydroelectric power plant near Priboj (adding a 13 MW production unit)
- Construction of the BIO4 campus in Belgrade, funded largely by the first tranche (€68 million) expected soon
The Ministry is also working on a list of state aid recipients, aiming for greater transparency through the formation of a monitoring committee. The outcome will influence future eligibility for state aid in Serbia.
