In a significant move for its energy sector, Serbia has approved land expropriation for the Bistrica pump-storage hydropower plant, marking a crucial step in the project’s administrative process. This designation of public interest facilitates the acquisition of necessary land for construction and associated infrastructure, thereby advancing the project into its implementation phase.
The expropriation will encompass various cadastral zones within the municipalities of Nova Varoš and Priboj, including key areas such as Radoinja, Rutoši, Seništa, Čelice, Kratovo, and Pribojske Čelice. The acquisition process is set to adhere to existing spatial planning documents related to both the Bistrica project and the adjacent Poteć hydropower system, ensuring compliance with relevant spatial and regulatory frameworks.
Elektroprivreda Srbije (EPS), Serbia’s state-owned power utility, has been designated as the beneficiary of this expropriation. Following the completion of legal procedures, EPS will gain control over the land and facilities necessary for advancing construction efforts. This responsibility positions EPS at the forefront of both project execution and future asset management, highlighting its pivotal role in Serbia’s energy landscape.
The Bistrica hydropower project aligns with Serbia’s broader strategy to enhance its electricity system’s resilience by increasing flexibility through pump-storage capabilities. Authorities anticipate that this facility will significantly contribute to supply balancing and overall system performance enhancement. It is expected to bolster grid stability while facilitating the integration of variable renewable energy sources. Preparatory activities are slated to commence within this year, signaling a shift from planning stages to on-the-ground implementation.
