Serbian Minister of Mining and Energy Dubravka Đedovic said six companies have expressed interest in the Đerdap 3 pumped-storage hydropower project, while another set of six companies submitted expressions of interest for developing the planned plant. The application deadline was 25 June. After the deadline, the submitted proposals will be reviewed for qualification to identify candidates that meet the required criteria.
Đerdap 3 feasibility and role in system flexibility
Đedovic described HPP Đerdap 3 as Serbia’s largest planned hydropower investment and said it is strategically important for the country’s future electricity system. She noted that a feasibility study for the project has already been completed. Development is focused on long-term operational reliability, system flexibility, and energy security.
Pumped-storage hydropower plants are gaining importance as renewable generation expands. They can store electricity during periods of surplus supply and release it during peak demand hours. For Serbia, Đerdap 3 is expected to support integration of variable renewable sources such as wind and solar.
The minister also said the project could help reduce pressure on the electricity system by providing additional flexibility. This aligns with the stated development focus on system flexibility and energy security.
Selection framework and investment estimate
The selection process is handled by a government working group created under an intergovernmental cooperation agreement between Serbia and the United States. Đedovic said the planned investment is estimated at more than €2.63 billion. She added that this places Đerdap 3 among the largest energy infrastructure projects currently planned in Serbia.
Bistrica pumped-storage timeline update
Đedovic also provided an update on the Bistrica hydropower plant, another pumped-storage project. She said preparatory activities are expected to begin later this year. Construction of the main facilities is planned to start in 2027.
The minister linked both developments to Serbia’s broader efforts to improve grid stability and renewable-energy integration. She also cited long-term security of electricity supply as part of Serbia’s power-system transformation.
