The modernization of the Vlasinske hydropower plants has officially commenced, marking a significant step for Serbia’s energy sector. Elektroprivreda Srbije (EPS) has mobilized contractors and supervisory teams to implement a comprehensive upgrade program valued at €109.7 million, aimed at enhancing the efficiency and reliability of these critical facilities.
Key contracts have been awarded to various entities, with Energotehnika Južna Bačka responsible for engineering services. The supply of core generator equipment will be managed by Andritz Hydro and Gamesa Electric, while the Mihajlo Pupin Institute will oversee the overhaul of command and control systems. Additionally, project supervision is being handled by the Swiss-Serbian consortium Gruner-NET Invest, ensuring a robust oversight mechanism throughout the modernization process.
This project is being financed through a combination of sources. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is providing a substantial loan of €67 million, supplemented by a €15.43 million grant from the EU via the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF). EPS is contributing an additional €27.26 million from its own resources to support this initiative.
The Vlasinske hydropower plants have an installed capacity of 129 MW and consist of four interconnected plants featuring ten generating units that have been operational for over 70 years. EPS CEO Dušan Živković has indicated that this modernization effort is expected to prolong the operational lifespan of the facilities, increase their output, and significantly improve long-term reliability.
These hydropower facilities play a crucial role within EPS’s portfolio as they function as a cascade system, allowing for sequential electricity generation across multiple plants. This configuration is particularly advantageous for peak load balancing in Serbia’s national electricity grid, highlighting their strategic importance in meeting both current and future energy demands.
