Serbia is laying the groundwork for potentially integrating nuclear energy into its energy portfolio, marking a significant shift in its energy strategy. Minister of Energy, Dubravka Đedović Handanović, confirmed in mid-June that discussions with the French state energy company EDF are underway to explore cooperation in peaceful nuclear energy applications.
The initiative, aimed at assessing the feasibility of a nuclear energy program, underscores Serbia’s long-term energy planning. “The legislative framework must first be established to enable Serbia to responsibly consider nuclear energy development in accordance with International Atomic Energy Agency standards,” Minister Đedović Handanović emphasized.
Addressing the existing moratorium on nuclear power plant construction, international nuclear energy expert Đurica Tankosić described it as a complex political issue stemming from historical concerns and global incidents like Chernobyl and Fukushima. Tankosić noted that while resistance to nuclear energy has softened in Serbia, preparatory activities, not prohibited by the moratorium, could commence pending political will.
Nuclear projects typically span 12 to 14 years, encompassing phases from preparatory groundwork and technology selection to construction and commissioning. Tankosić highlighted the potential for Serbia to leverage its infrastructure and strategic location, particularly with the reversible HPP “Đerdap 3” project, enhancing regional energy stability.
Despite challenges in local expertise, Tankosić suggested that Serbia could draw upon external nuclear specialists, as seen in previous nuclear plant developments. The economic impact, technological advancement, and energy reliability associated with nuclear power plants could position Serbia favorably in Central Europe’s energy landscape.
