In a significant shift in energy policy, Serbia has lifted its long-standing ban on nuclear power, marking a pivotal moment in its energy strategy. This decision reflects an openness to integrating nuclear energy into the country’s future energy portfolio and sets the stage for both domestic and international partnerships aimed at assessing the viability of a national nuclear program.
Minister of Mining and Energy Dubravka Đedovic announced that Serbia has approached the French Development Agency for grant funding to facilitate preliminary studies as part of its nuclear roadmap. This funding will support essential technical and preparatory analyses necessary before any major investment decisions are made. Furthermore, Minister Đedovic indicated that formal collaboration with French utility EDF is set to expand by March, coinciding with the establishment of a national body dedicated to overseeing the nuclear initiative, expected to be formally constituted by the end of this month.
The government’s focus is on structuring its nuclear plans amid increasing demands for long-term energy planning. The overarching objective is to ensure system stability over several decades, aligning with the Energy Development Strategy through 2040, which includes projections extending to 2050. The involvement of universities, local experts, and international partners will be crucial in determining subsequent steps. A preliminary study conducted alongside EDF representatives outlined 19 key measures compliant with IAEA standards, which will underpin Serbia’s initial nuclear framework. A memorandum of understanding was signed between Serbia and EDF in 2024 to foster long-term cooperation in energy transition and low-carbon technologies.
<pMeanwhile, Dušan Živković, director of state-owned utility EPS, emphasized the utility’s crucial role in maintaining national energy security throughout this transitional phase. He noted that approximately 4 GW of fossil fuel-based capacity will require replacement in the coming years. EPS is also committed to exploring the peaceful use of nuclear energy, recognizing that EDF’s extensive expertise in nuclear technology will be instrumental in shaping Serbia’s future energy landscape.
