Serbia is making significant strides in its pursuit of nuclear energy, with a potential timeline set for 2032 to initiate the construction of a nuclear power plant. Mining and Energy Minister Dubravka Đedović emphasized the country’s commitment as it progresses through the initial phase of its nuclear energy program.
The minister recently engaged with coordinators from various subgroups within an interministerial expert working group. This collaboration aims to evaluate the viability of Serbia’s nuclear energy ambitions, focusing on the development of essential feasibility studies that will inform future decisions.
Notably, Serbia completed a preliminary technical study on the peaceful use of nuclear energy in the previous year, marking an important step towards a more extensive evaluation process. The government has outlined key project tasks for this initial stage, prioritizing the prompt initiation of procurement procedures necessary for these studies.
The feasibility studies will be conducted by both domestic and international experts and institutions. They will address critical areas such as technical specifications, economic implications, environmental impacts, and regulatory frameworks essential for advancing nuclear development.
Additionally, Minister Đedović revealed that the French Development Agency has shown interest in financing part of the analytical work needed at this stage. This collaboration is expected to encompass various aspects including workforce training, site selection processes, engagement with domestic industry stakeholders, and effective public communication strategies, in partnership with French energy company Électricité de France (EDF).
The Serbian government aims to finalize all necessary studies by mid-next year. If this timeline is adhered to, Serbia could be positioned by 2032 to choose a technology partner and enter the contracting phase for its future nuclear facility.
If these plans come to fruition, a Serbian nuclear power plant could begin contributing electricity to the national grid as early as 2040. This development would represent a pivotal advancement in Serbia’s long-term energy strategy, aligning with broader regional goals for energy diversification and sustainability.
