Novi Sad is advancing a significant initiative aimed at modernizing its district heating system through a proposed solar thermal installation. The project, which is part of the city’s broader energy transformation strategy, seeks to integrate renewable energy sources into the existing infrastructure.
The city’s public urban planning company has submitted amendments that cover an area of approximately 86.25 hectares in the northeastern sector of Novi Sad. This area encompasses the current operations of the TE-TO energy complex, which includes a combined heat and power plant, and allows for future expansions and additional energy facilities.
Central to this initiative is a solar thermal project estimated at around €105 million, with financing secured from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). The design includes a solar collector field spanning about 7.4 hectares, along with two seasonal heat storage units covering approximately 15 hectares. Overall, the solar thermal complex will occupy about 29.7 hectares.
The planning amendments also facilitate enhancements to the existing TE-TO facility, which currently occupies about 19 hectares. Proposed developments include the potential addition of a new gas-steam unit, aimed at diversifying and modernizing Novi Sad’s energy production capabilities.
A substantial portion of the designated land is presently undeveloped and primarily utilized for agricultural purposes, indicating a significant shift in land use as the city moves towards renewable energy solutions.
The overarching objective of this project is to gradually reduce reliance on fossil fuels, thereby increasing efficiency and sustainability within Novi Sad’s district heating framework. This aligns with regional goals to enhance energy security and transition towards more sustainable energy practices.
