Lithium has been touted in Serbia as a solution for various issues, from electromobility to renewable energy storage. However, experts from EPS (Electric Power Industry of Serbia) express caution regarding its use for energy storage, particularly compared to reversible hydroelectric power plants.
During a panel discussion on Serbia’s green energy transition, EPS representatives highlighted that energy generated from wind and solar sources is more effectively stored in hydroelectric facilities than in lithium-ion batteries. They noted the current lack of recycling technology for batteries and their environmental impact.
Jova Tošić, project manager for the Petka solar power plant at EPS, stated, “Batteries have a lifespan of 20 to 25 years, and we do not know how they will be processed afterward. EPS is focusing on reversible hydro-power plants for storage.”
This viewpoint is independent of the ongoing debate about lithium mining in Serbia. In contrast, the recycling of solar panels is not a concern, as they can be mixed with construction materials at the end of their life.
In terms of renewable energy, Serbia achieved a share of 41.58% last year, up from 33.04% in 2019. The government aims to generate 1,500 megawatts of electricity from wind and solar by 2026, which panelists believe is feasible.
Despite skepticism about rapid capacity growth, Serbia has historically relied on hydropower, with about a third of its electricity coming from these sources. Dragan Stanković, director of EPS’s hydro and renewable energy sector, noted that out of eight gigawatts of installed capacity, three gigawatts come from hydropower.
EPS is exploring new hydropower projects, including international agreements for the Drina and Danube rivers. Current initiatives include the Đerdap 3 project with Romania and the Bistrica project, with tenders expected this fall and work potentially starting in 2026.
The Petka solar power plant in Kostolac is on track to be operational by March, while a wind farm there is set to begin in October 2025. Overall, Kostolac aims for over 1,000 megawatts from various energy sources.
Through revitalization efforts, EPS has gained approximately 200 million kilowatt hours per year and is preparing to upgrade four hydropower plants, some of which have been in operation for over 50 years.
