Serbian authorities have begun substantive discussions with Russian state-owned nuclear energy company Rosatom regarding the possible construction of a nuclear power plant, according to Serbian Ambassador to Moscow Momčilo Babić. He stressed that Serbia needs new electricity sources and expects tangible progress in the coming years.
The shift in national policy became possible after the Serbian Parliament lifted a decades-long ban on nuclear power plant construction in November 2024. The restriction, introduced in 1989 following the Chernobyl disaster, was removed as projections indicate that Serbia’s electricity demand could quadruple by 2050.
Serbia is actively exploring nuclear development options and evaluating potential contractors. Alongside Russia, contenders include South Korea, France, and China. Earlier this month, Serbia signed two memoranda of understanding with Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power (KHNP), while in 2024 the Ministry of Energy engaged French EDF to study the feasibility of nuclear generation in the country. Analysts note that Russia’s proposal is particularly attractive because it covers the full spectrum of nuclear services, including construction, operation, fuel supply, and waste management. A large-scale plant could feature two VVER-1200 reactors, while smaller facilities might use RITM-200 or RITM-400 designs.
Negotiations between Serbia and Russia are expected to last one to two years, after which construction could begin. Moscow might also provide a preferential loan to Belgrade, in line with its typical approach to international nuclear projects. Experts caution, however, that political factors could complicate the process. The European Union may seek to challenge a Russian-backed nuclear project in Serbia, as Belgrade continues aligning its legislation with EU standards in pursuit of membership. Brussels has already urged Serbia to adopt anti-Russian sanctions, raising concerns about potential interference with the initiative.
