Serbia’s Parliament has recently adopted amendments to the Law on Energy, which introduce new regulations aimed at enhancing the security of electricity supply from clean sources. One of the key changes is the lifting of the moratorium on nuclear energy, allowing for the use of nuclear technologies in the country. This move marks a significant shift, as it enables Serbia to explore nuclear power as part of its energy mix.
Nikola Rajaković, President of the Union of Energy Engineers, spoke with RTS about the implications of this decision. He expressed that the lifting of the moratorium should have occurred earlier, as nuclear technologies have become much safer in recent years. Rajaković emphasized that this change opens the door for the peaceful use of nuclear technologies in Serbia, enabling the country to better monitor developments in nuclear power globally.
A new chapter in Serbia’s energy development
According to Rajaković, the lifting of the moratorium on nuclear energy in Serbia is a historic moment, one that opens a new chapter in the country’s energy sector. He highlighted the benefits of nuclear power, particularly its ability to provide a constant, stable supply of electricity throughout the year, something that renewable energy sources cannot always guarantee. Nuclear power plants operate continuously, day and night, in all seasons, unlike solar or wind power, which depend on weather conditions.
However, Rajaković also acknowledged the high costs associated with nuclear energy. He pointed out that the main competition to nuclear energy is renewable sources, particularly when combined with hydrogen technologies. He believes that if Serbia can implement these technologies properly, it could achieve energy independence.
The potential for nuclear power in Serbia
While nuclear energy presents advantages, Rajaković cautioned that it remains a challenge for a small country like Serbia in terms of energy independence. He also noted that there is still a gap in public perception regarding the potential dangers of nuclear power, despite significant advancements in safety.
Rajaković suggested that Serbia could explore purchasing a share in the Hungarian Paks nuclear power plant, as buying foreign nuclear technologies might be the most favorable option for the country. He pointed out that small modular reactors, which are still in the early stages of development, are not yet a viable option for Serbia.
The decision on whether nuclear energy will be integrated into Serbia’s energy mix will likely be made within the next decade. Rajaković emphasized that while nuclear energy is a promising option, it must be evaluated against other emerging technologies, particularly in the context of a rapidly changing energy landscape.
Hydrogen as a promising energy source for Serbia
In addition to nuclear power, hydrogen is emerging as an increasingly important clean energy carrier. Rajaković believes hydrogen has great potential, particularly green hydrogen produced from surplus energy generated by wind and solar power. Hydrogen can be used for transportation, industry, and even as an energy storage solution for re-electrification.
However, he noted that the production of green hydrogen is still expensive, and its widespread use will depend on technological advancements and cost reductions in the future. Rajaković predicted that the era of coal and carbon-based energy is coming to an end, and the future will be dominated by hydrogen and renewable energy sources.
Balancing fossil fuels with renewable energy
As Serbia moves towards increasing the share of green energy, there will be a need to carefully balance fossil fuel-based power generation with new renewable energy sources. Rajaković emphasized that coal usage can be reduced as new capacities in wind and solar power are built, but this transition must be gradual and well-planned.
He also pointed out that Serbia’s thermal power plants are aging and will need to be phased out slowly. Some of these plants could remain as strategic reserves, ready to be restarted in case of an emergency. The key to ensuring energy security lies in a well-managed energy mix that incorporates both traditional and emerging energy technologies.
Maintaining energy security and independence
When asked how Serbia can maintain energy security in the future, Rajaković reaffirmed that a diverse energy mix is crucial. Serbia should focus on hydropower, wind, and solar energy, while continuing to rely on thermal power plants to maintain stability in the energy grid. At the same time, new technologies in solar power, battery storage, and hydrogen should be explored to improve efficiency and reduce the country’s carbon footprint.
Rajaković concluded by stressing the importance of long-term planning for energy independence, noting that breakthroughs in technology could provide even more efficient solutions for energy generation and storage in the future. Serbia’s energy policy must evolve in response to these advances, while ensuring that the country’s energy supply remains stable, secure, and sustainable.
