The Government of Serbia has adopted a draft law to amend and supplement the Energy Law, introducing several key changes aimed at modernizing the country’s energy sector. These amendments include the reintroduction of nuclear energy into Serbia’s energy mix, provisions allowing end consumers to become active buyers of electricity, and new options for contracts with variable prices. The draft law also signals the abolition of net metering for prosumers in the household category by 2026.
In August, the Ministry of Mining and Energy released the draft amendments, which underwent public consultation until September 10. Following the consultation, the Ministry incorporated a number of suggestions, one of which clarified the future of net metering for household prosumers. Net metering currently allows households to install solar panels and use the generated electricity to offset their consumption, reducing energy costs and promoting environmental sustainability.
Under the new law, net metering and net billing—systems that allow prosumers to sell excess electricity back to the grid—will be phased out for both households and businesses by December 31, 2026. However, existing prosumers will be allowed to retain net metering until the end of their solar plants’ operational lifespans, and individuals who qualify as prosumers by the 2026 deadline will continue to benefit from net metering. After 2026, new prosumers will not have access to net metering. The exact billing structure for these new prosumers will be determined when the law is enacted.
The Ministry of Mining and Energy has emphasized that these changes align with Serbia’s efforts to transpose the European Union’s energy regulatory framework and comply with the Energy Community’s rules.
The draft law also introduces significant changes for businesses. Companies will now be able to become “active buyers,” a status that allows them to independently generate, store, and sell electricity, or participate in energy flexibility services and efficiency programs. This move aims to reduce electricity costs for businesses while supporting Serbia’s transition to cleaner, greener energy sources. Active buyers will also benefit from avoiding CO2 tax payments, both domestically and in the context of EU exports.
Other provisions of the draft law include the introduction of dynamic electricity tariffs for consumers, certification requirements for renewable energy installers, a new capacity security mechanism, and the regulation of Serbia’s electricity balancing market. The law also facilitates the integration of Serbia’s electricity market with neighboring countries, fostering greater regional cooperation.
These changes represent Serbia’s continued commitment to enhancing its energy sector, promoting sustainability, and aligning with European energy policies.
