The EU Delegation in Serbia has announced that the long-awaited reconstruction of the Vlasina hydropower plants will begin in the spring of 2025. After more than 70 years of operation without significant upgrades, the project will receive a total of 83.1 million euros in funding. This includes 67 million euros from a loan provided by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and an additional 16.1 million euros from an EU investment grant under the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF).
The funding will be used to completely replace key equipment such as turbines, generators, and hydromechanical components, allowing all four power plants in the Vlasina system to operate at full capacity. The upgrade aims to eliminate frequent repairs and ensure the reliable operation of the plants. Additionally, the modernization will help create a more stable and balanced electricity network, while providing a slight increase in production capacity.
The Vlasinske hydropower system, consisting of four cascade power plants, was built between 1946 and 1949 and is supplied by water from the artificial Vlasina and Lisina lakes.
Following this reconstruction, EPS plans to modernize several other hydropower plants, including those at Bistrica, Potpec, and Djerdap 2, along with facilities at Uvac, Kokin Brod and Pirot.
