State-owned power utility EPS has announced that public consultations for the environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) of the planned Bistrica pumped-storage hydropower plant will be held on 13–14 May. This marks a key step in the project’s regulatory and community engagement process.
EPS recently confirmed a delay in finalizing the draft Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the project. The postponement stems from the need to align the study with Serbia’s updated Law on Environmental Impact Assessment, which came into effect in December. The new law introduced changes to the content requirements for EIA documentation, requiring revisions to the draft in accordance with fresh guidance from the Ministry of Environmental Protection.
Despite the delay, preparations for the Bistrica project are progressing. In March, EPS announced the completion of the feasibility study. Additionally, efforts to obtain location conditions and prepare technical documentation for the relocation of affected infrastructure—such as roads, power lines, and water systems—are nearing completion.
Minister of Mining and Energy Dubravka Đedović has indicated that preparatory construction work is expected to begin in 2026. The fourth session of the Serbian Government’s Working Group for the construction of HPP Bistrica recently reviewed the progress of technical preparations and outlined forthcoming steps in the project timeline.
Once completed, HPP Bistrica is expected to strengthen Serbia’s energy flexibility and storage capabilities, playing a pivotal role in supporting the country’s renewable energy integration and grid stability.
