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New Business Perspectives – Investing in Solar Energy

Photo: CEEFOR

Influenced by global events, concerns about inflation, and energy dilemmas, economic actors are looking for sensible investment avenues. The implementation of solar systems is increasingly becoming a chosen investment path, which is not only a step towards energy independence but also an important segment of the economic strategy of those economic actors. Such an understanding is becoming increasingly accepted in Serbia, where solar panels are gradually gaining importance as an investment opportunity that promises both environmental advantaPhotographs: CEEFOR ge and satisfaction and a profitable calculation. It’s part of the story that makes solar energy an increasingly attractive option for those looking for long-term savings and a good energy solution, given that solar panels can significantly reduce electricity bills.

As companies increasingly recognize the value of solar investments that contribute to reducing dependence on traditional energy sources, one of CEEFOR’s projects confirmed the thesis that interest is growing in our country as well.

The project in question, for which the design and technical documentation have been entrusted to CEEFOR engineers, is the BAT Vranje solar power plant, which will be located on the roofs of the factory buildings, with a planned, approved capacity of 910 kW. The plant will be equipped with 1,800 photovoltaic panels manufactured by Luxor Solar, while each panel will have an individual power of 545 Wp.

A total of 46 Fronius inverters with two different power levels will be used to convert the produced DC electricity into alternating current: 29 inverters with an individual power of 20 kW and a total nominal power of 580 kW, and 17 inverters with an individual power of 15 kW and a total power of 255 kW.

IN FOCUS:

Production Assessment

The technical aspects of the project have been carefully planned to deliver the most optimal solution. The design of the solar power plant, an area in which CEEFOR has been demonstrating its ability to earn clients’ trust for years, also involves assessing future monthly and annual electricity production with maximum utilization of available resources and conditions and minimization of operational costs.

The expected annual production for this particular project is 1,181,092.4 kWh, which should significantly reduce grid electricity consumption.

Photo: CEEFOR

As is already known, electricity production is not constant throughout the year but fluctuates, which is characteristic of this type of renewable energy source. As is the case in our climate, considerably higher production is expected during the summer months, while during the winter months, the production is naturally lower due to the shorter days and fewer hours of sunshine in general. For example, the peak of production was estimated for June, when it should exceed 150,000 kWh, while the lowest production is expected in December, estimated to be just above 34,000 kWh.

According to the consumer-producer principle, the energy produced will be used for internal consumption and placed in the distribution network.

Since being granted legal status, the prosumer model, or a consumer who simultaneously produces electricity, has proven to be a good incentive for the introduction of solar systems in Serbia, both for individuals and for companies. This legal change has enabled companies to gain prosumer status, which has become a significant issue due to rising electricity prices, advancements in the solar industry, and climate goals on the horizon.

On the other hand, CEEFOR has been recognized among many who have seen the value of these investments and have shown their willingness to harness the power of the sun in the best way – as a reliable partner on this journey.

Prepared by Milica Vučković

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

Indoor Air Can Be More Polluted Than Outdoor Air

Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

People can be exposed to polluted air inside their homes, even if outdoor air quality is good, reveals a new study.

Researchers from the University of Birmingham used low-cost sensors and innovative techniques during a two-week analysis to compare particulate matter levels in three households. They found that pollution levels in each home were higher and more variable than outdoor levels.

Significant differences in particle levels were found among the three houses, with one home exceeding the 24-hour PM2.5 limit set by the World Health Organization (WHO) by nine times—highlighting the importance of monitoring indoor air quality.

The study was published in Scientific Reports and is the second research paper from the McCall MacBain Clean Air Fellows, a postgraduate program focused on air pollution issues.

„The study demonstrated the need for indoor air pollution monitoring, as people can have unhealthy air at home even if outdoor air quality is good”, said co-author and clean air fellow Katherine Rathbone.

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Researchers identified five different factors contributing to indoor PM particles—two related to household activities, such as increased movement of residents, and three associated with external factors, such as ventilation from a nearby restaurant’s kitchen. They found that larger particles (PM10) tended to settle more quickly compared to smaller particles (PM1, PM2.5).

The University of Birmingham is at the forefront of research on the causes and effects of air pollution on human health in the UK and globally. The university has more than 100 researchers studying clean air across its five faculties.

Harmful Scented Candles

Introducing air fresheners, wax melts, floor cleaners, deodorants, and similar chemicals causes indoor air to quickly fill with nanoparticles small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs, as revealed by multiple studies. Wax and other scented products release terpenes, chemical compounds responsible for fragrance. Since these products contain a higher concentration of fragrance oils than many candles, they emit more terpenes into indoor air.

Energy portal

Energy Balance for 2025: Serbia Increases Solar and Wind Energy Production

Foto-ilustracija: People house photo created by senivpetro - www.freepik.com

In 2025, the production of energy from certain renewable sources is expected to grow, but the total amount of energy from all renewable sources combined will be slightly lower than in 2024, according to the Energy Balance for 2025.

Specifically, an increase in production from wind, solar, biogas, and waste is expected, while at the same time, there will be a slight decline in production from other renewable sources, such as biomass and hydropower. As a result, the total planned energy production from renewable sources in 2025 is 2.770 million tons of oil equivalent (Mtoe), which is two percent lower compared to the estimated level for 2024, amounting to 2.824 Mtoe.

In the total domestic production of primary energy for 2025, renewable sources account for 29 percent, while their share in 2024 is estimated at 30 percent. Solid biomass still holds the largest share among renewable energy sources (61 percent), followed by hydropower potential (30 percent), while wind energy accounts for five percent. Other sources, including biogas, solar energy, industrial and municipal waste, landfill gas, and geothermal energy, make up the remaining four percent.

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A significant increase in wind energy utilization is planned, reaching 1,639 GWh in 2025, which is 17 percent higher than the estimated value for 2024 (1,396 GWh). Additionally, solar energy utilization is planned at 119 GWh, representing a three percent increase compared to 2024, while biogas utilization will grow by seven percent, from 0.024 Mtoe to 0.025 Mtoe.

Geothermal energy production in 2025 will remain at the same level as in 2024, amounting to 0.0015 Mtoe, being used exclusively for heating purposes. The planned production of renewable industrial waste remains unchanged at 0.0011 Mtoe, while the production of renewable municipal waste will increase by 21 percent, from 0.0268 Mtoe in 2024 to 0.0323 Mtoe in 2025.

The total domestic production of natural gas in 2025 will amount to 283.440 million cubic meters, which is six percent lower than the estimated production in 2024. The remaining required quantities, as much as 90 percent, will be secured through imports, totaling 2,430.870 million cubic meters.

The planned import of electricity is 5,664 GWh, which is 14 percent lower than in 2024, while exports are planned at 6,147 GWh, representing an 11 percent decrease compared to the previous year.

Energetski portal

Indonesia Plans to Expand Coal Power Plants – How Will This Affect Climate Goals?

Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (Eduardo Jaeger)

Indonesia, in its latest National Electricity Master Plan for the period 2024–2060 (RUKN), has outlined the expansion of coal power plant capacity and an increase in coal production. According to EMBER, if this plan is implemented, Indonesia’s climate goals could be jeopardized.

An increase in coal power plant capacity by 26.8 GW is planned over the next seven years, with industrial coal power plants (captive coal power plants) playing a key role in this expansion. Of the total mentioned capacity, 6.6 GW will be connected to the power grid, while more than 20 GW will be dedicated exclusively to supplying industrial facilities. The highest production growth is expected in 2037, with a projected increase of 62.7 percent compared to current levels.

However, renewable energy sources could play a larger role in supplying these closed systems, given that new coal power generation is becoming increasingly expensive and less competitive.

The total capacity of all coal power plants in Indonesia currently stands at 49.7 GW, of which 38.5 GW is connected to the power grid, while the rest consists of power plants that supply industries directly. The capacity of coal power plants has doubled over the past decade, leading to a surplus of electricity production. However, this surplus has resulted in financial burdens for Indonesia’s state-owned electricity company and has also slowed the development of renewable energy sources.

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Nevertheless, the realization of the planned 5.2 GW of industrial coal power plants remains uncertain, as it has not yet been fully decided which capacities will be built and where. This uncertainty provides an opportunity to reassess these plans and potentially integrate a greater share of renewable energy sources.

RUKN projects that electricity demand will grow at an annual rate of about 3.8 percent. From the current 482 TWh, demand is expected to rise to 1,813 TWh by 2060. This increase is driven by the growing use of electric vehicles, the development of new industries such as the green hydrogen industry, and others.

Despite expectations that renewable energy sources will dominate the energy mix by 2040, coal and natural gas production will continue to grow over the next decade. In fact, coal production is expected to grow at an annual rate of 3.9 percent, outpacing the 3.8 percent growth in electricity demand. Renewables are projected to reach a 41 percent share by 2040, a delay of several years compared to the target set by the 2014 National Energy Policy (KEN).

Energy portal

Climate Crisis and Social Injustice: Who Really Pays the Price?

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Dulana Kkodithuwakku)

As climate change becomes increasingly visible and intense, it is clear that it does not affect everyone equally. Those who have contributed the least to the ecological crisis often bear its heaviest consequences. Historically marginalized groups—such as the poor, women, people with disabilities, immigrants, and people of color—face the greatest risks, while their ability to adapt is often limited by systemic injustices.

In many cases, the most vulnerable communities are those living in informal settlements—places that often lack basic infrastructure such as stable housing, sewage systems, and access to clean water. More than a billion people worldwide live in such settlements, many of whom are already experiencing the effects of climate change, including droughts, floods, and heat waves.

Joycelin, one of the hosts of the SystemShift podcast launched by the non-governmental organization Greenpeace, emphasizes that climate shocks add to already existing systems of oppression, making them even more devastating for those who are already socially and economically disadvantaged.

„So, it is like a gigantic structure that in the end is not only limited to climate change affecting these communities, but all the problems impact the poor much more and consequently, the Black and Indigenous people, because the majority of them live in poverty”, said podcast guest Lali Riascos, a young environmental activist from Colombia.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Bruno Thethe)

The Global South, home to many of the world’s poorest countries, is already paying a huge price, while marginalized communities in these regions are fighting for survival.

In Brazil, residents of favelas not only produce the least pollution but are also the first to be affected by climate disasters. Their reality is harsh: floods that wash away improvised homes, droughts that threaten food sources, and pollution that further deteriorates public health. Yet, the financial resources needed for their protection are out of reach. According to research, 492 billion dollars is lost annually due to tax evasion, money that could be used to fund crucial adaptation projects.

„Why should communities in the Global South have to pay the price for a problem they did not create, while those who have profited from it remain the most protected? ” asks Carl Schlitter, one of the podcast hosts.

While politicians and large corporations delay concrete action, people on the ground are already taking measures. Marginalized communities are not waiting to be saved—they are already developing their own adaptation strategies, and their experiences and knowledge must be recognized and supported through official policies.

„In Brazil, the most vulnerable communities, like the favelas, pollute the least, yet they are the ones who pay the price—literally—with their lives. One practical example of what we do in our community is risk mapping. With the arrival of summer and heavy rains, we have formed groups that identify areas prone to flooding and landslides. This helps us create evacuation plans and mark safe routes, showing where to seek shelter in case of an emergency. Even though we have few resources, we carry out this task collectively”, says young Brazilian activist Matheus Fernandes.

Governments and international organizations have a responsibility to listen to and support local initiatives. As climate change becomes increasingly severe, including vulnerable communities in decision-making about climate adaptation is no longer just an option—it is a moral imperative. Because the climate crisis is not just an environmental problem—it is a matter of justice.

Milena Maglovski

Global Strategist in Energy Challenges

Photo: SolarEdge
Photo: courtesy of Jernej Blaj

In today’s world, as we face challenges such as climate change, global pollution, and the necessary energy transition driven by a network of intertwined factors, SolarEdge stands out as a leader in renewable energy. With the growing demand for electricity and the increasing number of electric devices and vehicles on the roads, it is becoming increasingly challenging to track consumption and identify opportunities for savings. SolarEdge offers a range of solutions to address this situation.

With more than 4.1 million monitored systems worldwide, SolarEdge has become a monumental player in energy consumption optimization and system safety, reducing risks of fires and other high-voltage incidents. Their DC-Optimized technology redefines the future of the energy sector, setting new standards for efficient solar energy production and management.

Among its many achievements, SolarEdge enables homeowners to generate solar energy and store and manage it in the most efficient ways, thanks to an operating system that creates personalized energy programs based on budgets, energy lifestyles, appliances, and other data. With the help of a suite of applications, homeowners can monitor all aspects of their systems. With over 3.4 million installed residential solar systems, the company demonstrates the practical application of its innovations.

The company’s global presence is evident through its operations in more than 140 countries, with over 4,200 employees and 55 GW of installed equipment. SolarEdge systems enable an annual reduction of 40 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions, equivalent to the yearly CO2 emissions of some of the world’s most prominent cities.

Furthermore, the company upholds numerous values, with over 165 women in leadership roles. SolarEdge showcases its commitment to social responsibility and sustainable resource management by recycling 83 percent of its waste.

Thus, SolarEdge is not only a solar industry company but also a key player in the global energy revolution, as our interview with Jernej Blaj, Sales Manager for the Western Balkans, confirmed.

IN FOCUS:

Q: You offer a wide range of energy management solutions and services. What would you say if you had to describe what SolarEdge does to a new client in a few sentences?

A: SolarEdge provides sophisticated and comprehensive energy management solutions tailored to a wide range of needs, meeting the growing demands of households, businesses, and energy systems. At the core of our offering is maximizing energy production, increasing efficiency, ensuring safety, and enhancing innovative energy management. For example, our power optimizers improve solar panel efficiency by minimizing shading or mismatch issues, ensuring each panel reaches its full potential.

Safety is a crucial aspect of our solutions. Innovative technologies like SafeDC™ automatically reduce system voltage during emergencies or maintenance to protect people and property, while Sense Connect detects potential electrical faults before they escalate. These technologies underline our commitment to safety and reliability, offering peace of mind to our customers. In short, SolarEdge not only provides solar energy solutions but empowers its clients with powerful tools for more efficient and safer energy production, management, and utilization.

Q: How many applications do you currently offer, and what can users achieve with them? What is the user experience like with these apps?

A: SolarEdge offers a suite of applications designed to meet different user needs, from installation to ongoing energy management.

  • SolarEdge ONE: A comprehensive energy management platform that allows users to control energy production, storage, and consumption. It is beneficial for optimizing energy use and ensuring cost efficiency.
  • SolarEdge GO: This app, focused on installers, streamlines the installation process, making system commissioning and maintenance faster and more efficient.
  • mySolarEdge: A user-friendly app for homeowners that provides real-time insights into their solar energy system, including production, consumption, and storage status.
  • SolarEdge Designer: A powerful tool for project planners and designers that helps create detailed and optimized solar system layouts to maximize performance.

These applications are widely praised for their intuitive user experience and practical insights. From installers to end-users, SolarEdge apps transform how solar energy systems are designed, implemented, and managed.

Interview by Milica Vučković

The inteview was published in the Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

The World’s Largest Aircraft Will Transport Wind Turbine Blades Longer Than a Football Field

Promo: Radia

Wind energy holds untapped potential that requires further infrastructure development to be fully harnessed. Roads used for transporting wind turbine blades are often unsuitable due to limited width, especially in areas with tunnels, bridges, and sharp curves. Currently, the maximum blade length that can be transported by road is no more than 70 meters.

The efficiency of wind energy production also depends on the length of the blades. Increasing the efficiency of wind turbines means extending the length of their blades. To enable future blades to reach lengths of over 100 meters, a new method of transportation must be found.

One potential solution comes in the form of innovative technology such as the WindRunner – the world’s largest aircraft designed to transport these massive blades. This aircraft will be capable of transporting blades up to 105 meters long – longer than a standard football field, for comparison.

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The WindRunner will be able to land on semi-prepared dirt runways as short as 1,800 meters, significantly shorter than standard runways. Thanks to this design, wind turbine blades can be delivered almost directly to their installation sites.

The largest aircraft ever built was the Antonov An-225, designed for cargo transport, with a cargo volume of approximately 1,160 cubic meters. However, once completed, the WindRunner will push the boundaries of possibility with an astonishing 8,200 cubic meters of cargo volume, as announced on the official website of Radia, the company developing this revolutionary aircraft.

Katarina Vuinac

Carbon Management: Cost or Investment in a Sustainable Business?

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (CapeCom)
Photo: Courtesy of Maja Petrović

Climate change is no longer a distant threat but a daily reality shaping the business environment. From extreme weather events to shifting consumer and investor expectations, the impacts of climate change affect everyone—from small businesses to large corporations. In this context, carbon management stands out as an essential tool for responsible business operations and an opportunity for innovation, growth, and resilience. Yet, a key question often arises: what does carbon management actually entail? Is it just another bureaucratic burden, or is it the key to a sustainable future?

The European Union, a global leader in combating climate change, has introduced a series of regulations requiring companies to manage emissions responsibly. Carbon management involves systematically measuring, reducing, and neutralizing carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming. In the EU, this concept is becoming an increasingly significant requirement for businesses, particularly through regulations mandating emissions tracking, alignment with sustainability goals, and transparent reporting. At the heart of this approach lies a powerful idea: what can be measured can be managed with precision and shaped with vision.

IN FOCUS:

In 1992, at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) in Rio de Janeiro, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was adopted, laying the foundation for a global fight against climate challenges. Five years later, the Kyoto Protocol introduced the first legally binding targets for emission reductions. In 2005, the European Union launched the European Emissions Trading System (ETS), whose ‘cap-and-trade’ principle created new investment opportunities in clean technologies and innovations. The Paris Agreement of 2015 marked the pinnacle of these efforts, setting the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

This historic milestone now defines business strategies, as climate responsibility is no longer just an ecological obligation but a key factor in competitiveness and long-term sustainability. In addition to the ETS, the European Green Deal, introduced in 2019, serves as the foundation for transitioning to a low-carbon economy.

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Gerd Altmann)

The goals are ambitious: reducing emissions by at least 55 percent by 2030 and achieving climate neutrality by the middle of the 21st century. The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) was introduced to support these objectives. It prevents carbon leakage by imposing tariffs on emissions embedded in imported products from countries with weaker environmental standards.

The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which came into effect on October 1, 2023, sets new standards for fair competition in the European market. Currently focused on emissions reporting for key industries such as cement, steel, aluminum, fertilizers, and electricity, CBAM will introduce a requirement to pay taxes based on reported emissions starting in 2026. This mechanism not only levels the playing field for producers but also pressures nonEU countries to improve their environmental standards. The essence of successfully implementing CBAM lies in precise greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting, which meticulously maps every step of the value chain— from production to transportation. For companies worldwide, this is not just a regulatory challenge but also an opportunity for innovation that redefines sustainable business practices.

Maja Petrović

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

New Generation of Solar Cells – Fully Recyclable and Environmentally Friendly

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Michael_Pointner)

Researchers from Linköping University in Sweden have developed a revolutionary method for recycling next-generation solar cells, enabling their reuse without harmful chemicals. This innovation, published in the journal Nature, could solve the problem of electronic waste and advance the sustainable energy transition.

Unlike traditional silicon panels, which end up in landfills after their lifespan expires, the new perovskite solar cells can be fully recycled using only ordinary water as a solvent. Even more impressively, recycled cells retain the same efficiency as the original ones – converting up to 25 percent of solar energy into electricity.

What Are Perovskite Solar Cells and Why Are They Superior?

Perovskite solar cells are a type of photovoltaic cell made from perovskite materials, which have a unique crystal structure suitable for high-efficiency solar energy conversion. These cells are lightweight, flexible, and transparent, meaning they can be used on various surfaces – from traditional solar panels to windows and even textiles.

Unlike silicon solar cells, which require high temperatures and complex manufacturing processes, perovskite cells can be produced more cheaply and with lower energy consumption. Additionally, they have the potential to be more efficient in low-light conditions, making them ideal for various climates.

„We must consider recycling when developing new technologies. If we don’t know how to reuse them, perhaps we shouldn’t bring them to market at all”, emphasized Professor Feng Gao from Linköping University.

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Revolutionary Recycling Method – Without Harmful Chemicals

Current methods for recycling perovskite cells use toxic solvents such as dimethylformamide, which are harmful to the environment and human health. However, researchers from Linköping have developed an innovative approach that uses water as the only solvent.

Their method allows careful decomposition of solar cells in water, enabling all key materials – glass layers, electrodes, perovskite layers, and charge transport layers – to be reused in new cells without any loss of performance. This process not only reduces waste but also significantly lowers the environmental footprint of solar panel production.

This discovery comes at a critical time, as a sharp increase in electricity consumption is expected with the development of artificial intelligence and the electrification of transportation. Experts believe this technology will play a key role in securing clean energy in the future, provided industrial processes adapt to mass production.

Milena Maglovski

Investments in Green Energy: A Step Towards Sustainable Business and Responsibility

Photo: NIS

Renewable energy sources play an increasingly important role in today’s energy mix. Also, the legal regulations of certain countries have been significantly tightened when it comes to fossil fuels and their environmental impact. That is why energy transition and green energy are increasingly important. Companies that recognize the importance of renewable energy sources and actively invest in them not only support the fight against climate change but also create competitive advantages in the market.

At the same time, investing in green energy contributes to the creation of a healthier and more sustainable environment but also stimulates the development of new technologies and innovations. Through these activities, companies not only improve their business but also significantly contribute to the preservation of natural resources for future generations. Their strategic action confirms that sustainability and economic development are inseparable, and the green agenda is the key to the survival and progress of the entire society.

IN FOCUS:

Environmentally oriented business initiatives

That is why a large number of energy companies implement significant projects in the field of renewable energy sources. This trend is also followed by domestic companies. One example is the company NIS, which, in the last two years, implemented a project to build solar power plants at its refueling stations and other facilities, such as the Jazak water factory. NIS has specifically invested in the energy transition, focusing on building capacities for producing electricity from renewable sources. The project was primarily implemented at refueling stations, so solar panels were installed at as many as 45 refueling stations by July 2023.

These power plants produce about 1,600 MWh annually, which reduces the company’s electricity costs by about 230,000 euros. At the same time, carbon dioxide emissions are significantly reduced at these facilities—by as much as 1,700 tons per year. According to NIS, the development of innovative solutions that contribute to environmental protection and, at the same time, increase energy efficiency in the field of energy saving are one of the basic elements of the company’s business strategy. Since 2009, the company has invested more than 900 million euros in environmental projects and business initiatives that indirectly improve the environmental picture in our country, of which more than 130 million euros are directed to environmental initiatives.

Photo: NIS

In 2023 alone, 801.8 million dinars were invested in implementing ecological projects. Thanks to significant investments in the implementation of the green agenda through business processes, NIS reduced direct carbon dioxide emissions by 6 percent last year. In addition, NIS continuously improves equipment and facilities with the aim of optimizing energy consumption and reducing the emission of harmful gases, the key causes of climate change. Thus, in the Pančevo Oil Refinery, a deep processing plant was put into operation, with the operation of which the production of fuel oil with a high sulfur content was abolished, which led to a reduction of sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions by as much as 98.8 percent.

NIS

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

Global AI and Energy Monitoring Center: IEA Announces Innovations as India Builds the World’s Largest Data Center

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (markus-spiske)

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has announced the launch of a Global AI and Energy Monitoring Center this spring to track the growing impact of data center construction on electricity consumption. During the “AI Action Summit” in Paris, IEA Executive Director highlighted that the rapid growth of artificial intelligence and digital technologies requires urgent coordination between energy companies, government institutions, and the technology sector to ensure a stable and sustainable energy infrastructure.

According to IEA data, electricity demand from data centers currently accounts for 1.4 percent of global consumption, with projections suggesting it could reach as high as three percent by 2030. An AI data center can consume as much electricity as 100,000 households on average. IEA Director Birol warned that without proper planning and the construction of new energy infrastructure, many AI projects risk being delayed or halted.

In addition to increasing energy demands, artificial intelligence offers significant potential to transform how we produce, consume, and distribute energy. AI can improve weather forecasting and efficiency in developing new technologies, including nuclear energy (such as small modular reactors) and geothermal solutions, while also optimizing the operation of electric grids.

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Photo-illustration: Unsplash (jordan-harrison)

In December last year, the IEA organized the first global conference on energy and artificial intelligence, where experts from various sectors discussed how AI can facilitate the green transition and enhance energy system efficiency. Ahead of the release of its new Special Report on Energy and Artificial Intelligence on April 10, Dr. Birol confirmed that the “Energy, AI, and Data Center Observatory” will also be launched on the same day, providing the most detailed publicly available data on the global energy needs of AI technologies.

India is currently constructing the world’s largest data center, designed to offer massive storage, processing, and analytics capacities to support the development of artificial intelligence and other advanced digital technologies. The data center is being built near Mumbai, one of India’s key business and technology hubs, and during the summit, the IEA director praised the Indian Prime Minister for this ambitious initiative.

The primary goal of the project is to ensure a reliable IT infrastructure that supports the exponential growth of AI applications while giving India a strategic advantage in the global race for technological innovation, attracting international investments, and creating new jobs in the rapidly growing IT sector.

The new observatory that the IEA plans to launch will serve as a centralized, comprehensive system for monitoring energy consumption in data centers and the impact of artificial intelligence on energy infrastructure. This means the IEA will collect and analyze detailed data on how much electricity data centers worldwide consume, how the rising demand for AI technologies is affecting global electricity needs, and which models of collaboration and innovation prove most effective after the project goes live this spring.

Energy portal

Nuclear Reactor – A State’s Sovereignty

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (jp)

Since it was first mentioned, the potential development of a nuclear energy program in Serbia has sparked significant interest. A topic absent from public discourse for decades, it has now garnered widespread attention across society, from scientists, economists, and journalists to the general public. Amendments to the Energy Act, which would include lifting the current moratorium prohibiting the construction of nuclear facilities, would form the foundation for further decisions.

Since expertise should guide such a topic of national importance, we sought detailed insights from Slavko Dimović, PhD, Director of the Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences, the largest multidisciplinary institute in the Balkans. While we have only scratched the surface, we aimed to explore an optimal solution for Serbia and how to build a specialized workforce, particularly nuclear engineers.

Nuclear Energy for Base Consumption

Photo-illustration: Unspalsh (dan-meyers)

Choosing nuclear energy raises a broad spectrum of critical questions and provides much-needed answers. On the one hand, nuclear power is a solution for achieving climate goals and moving away from fossil fuels, offering the most significant reduction in CO2 emissions compared to other energy sources. Beyond ecological benefits and accelerated progress through the green transition, nuclear energy establishes a cornerstone for a country’s energy security, enabling stable energy supplies independent of volatile prices, weather conditions, and political uncertainties.

As Dimović, PhD explains, achieving the set climate goals requires abandoning fossil fuels by 2050, while consumer societies are demanding ever more electricity. Serbia finds itself in a unique labyrinth: these goals exert pressure on its economy, which risks losing competitiveness if it does not keep pace. Simultaneously, the chances of Serbia abandoning coal while maintaining energy security are slim. Serbia’s situation with fossil fuels is precarious because its domestic resource—lignite—has low energy value and thermal power, even compared to other types of coal. The country’s reserves are both insufficient in quantity and poor in quality, while coal imports are neither a sustainable nor long-term solution. Nuclear energy naturally emerges as a solution for self-sufficiency and a greener economy when considering penalties and pressures awaiting the domestic economy.

However, nuclear projects often face criticism for their tendency to exceed deadlines far more than other infrastructure projects. In addition to delays, nuclear power plant construction frequently suffers from budget overruns, sometimes doubling initial cost estimates. For example, one of the largest reactors in Finland, with a capacity of 1.6 GW, took 16 years to build. Despite these challenges, the numerous advantages of nuclear energy should not be overlooked.

Lessons from Chernobyl and Regulatory Frameworks

After the 1986 Chernobyl disaster, many countries worldwide tightened regulations and controls on radioactivity levels. At that time, Yugoslavia adopted stringent laws, setting limits four times stricter than those in the United States. Although the former state boasted exceptional experts, the inherited moratorium halted all scientific and technological progress in this field.

IN FOCUS:

Serbia’s Energy Strategy

The draft strategy for energy development in Serbia, discussed publicly earlier this year, outlines reforms in the energy sector. These include gradually introducing fees for greenhouse gas emissions and ambitious targets for renewable energy sources (RES). By 2040, Serbia aims for wind and solar capacities to exceed 10 GW, with renewable sources comprising around 70 percent of the energy mix. The development of nuclear energy is being considered, though no specific targets have been set. Dimović, PhD suggests a more realistic figure of 30 percent renewable energy in Serbia’s mix—this is not due to a lack of expertise but because of climatic and meteorological constraints. While alternative and nuclear energy technologies are not directly comparable, they should work symbiotically as they serve different purposes. Alternative sources depend on their performance characteristics, while nuclear energy can serve as a stable and consistent base. Serbia’s reliance on coal remains a central issue; coal dominates electricity production, and entirely abandoning it seems impossible without a crucial energy solution. Still, when asked whether coal should be phased out, Dimović’s answer is an unequivocal ‘yes’.

Addressing Serbia’s Energy Deficit

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Dirk-Rabe)

When considering energy solutions, one must account for Serbia’s electricity deficit, estimated at 1.2 to 1.5 GW, according to Dimović. He recommends adopting regional practices, comparing Serbia with neighboring countries rather than larger players like France or Russia. Most of Serbia’s neighbors operate second-generation Russian reactors with a capacity of around 1 GW. While Chernobyl’s reactor was also second-generation, it used a graphite moderator, unlike improved models in the region. Serbia, however, could turn to third-generation reactors, with fourth-generation thorium reactors currently under development globally.

Dimović, PhD suggests that Serbia’s plan should involve constructing one or two conventional reactors with a capacity of 1.2 GW each. Another potential option is small modular reactors (SMRs), roughly the size of three or four stacked refrigerators, with capacities of up to 300 MW. These could be installed at decommissioned thermal power plants. However, he considers the first option more suitable for Serbia.

How to Educate Domestic Experts in Nuclear Engineering?

The shortage of skilled professionals is not limited to the nuclear industry; it is also evident in other sectors, including trades and driving professions. However, Slavko Dimović, PhD offers a potential solution to this issue:

“The planning process for a nuclear power plant takes three to five years. Once the state decides to secure funding and proceed with the reactor’s construction, experts come from the country that provided the technology. In this scenario, foreign professionals manage the installation and technical oversight of the nuclear power plant, while local personnel are trained and involved in the process. Such technologies should remain under state ownership, at least in our region, although there is the example of Slovakia, where a nuclear reactor is privately owned,” he explains.

A nuclear power plant employs fewer people than coal-fired power plants, primarily due to widespread automation and the highly educated workforce required, even during uranium mining. Only about 5 percent of the workforce are nuclear engineers, with the rest comprising mechanical, civil, and chemical engineers, among other specialists.

“To achieve the level of expertise we had decades ago when we had reliable technical personnel, quality schools, and serious engineers; we must commit to this path. Either we will rebuild our technical expertise, where we previously excelled, or shift towards tertiary services and become a tourism-oriented country, which requires a completely different type of workforce,” Dimović explains further.

Prepared by Milica Vučković

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

Italy: KEY – The Energy Transition Expo, the Energy Transition Community’s Global Reference Network, Is About to Start

Photo-illustration: Freepik (AI)
Photo: KEY-The Energy Transition Expo

Over 1,000 exhibitors in over 90,000 square metres of exhibition area and 20 halls for KEY-The Energy Transition Expo, Italian Exhibition Group’s energy transition and efficiency event, a reference point in Europe, Africa and the Mediterranean basin, from 5th to 7th March at Rimini Expo Centre in Italy. KEY is set to be the largest and most international edition ever.

Peraboni, Astolfi and Previati comment.

“With over 250 top buyers and delegations from 48 countries,” says Corrado Peraboni, CEO IEG, “and North Africa, the Middle East, the Balkans and Eastern Europe among the most represented geographical areas, the upcoming edition is growing strongly on the international front. Moreover, the number of exhibitors, up 20 percent compared to 2024, will see 35 percent arriving from abroad.”

Alessandra Astolfi, Global Exhibition Manager at IEG, adds, “The event therefore consolidates its role as a reference network for the global energy transition and efficiency community thanks to the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), the Italian Trade Agency, and collaboration with over 40 of the sector’s leading foreign associations and the network of agents throughout the world.”

“The extraordinary ability of KEY to unite the sector’s major players during the three days of the Rimini event,” says IEG Exhibition Manager Christian Previati, “favours the encounter, confrontation and dialogue with the institutions and aims to create a system and contribute to speeding up the decarbonisation process.”

The programme of events, organised by the Technical-Scientific Committee, chaired by Professor Gianni Silvestrini, is also international in scope and will include, among the others, the German-Italian Energy Talk on the importance of green hydrogen, organised by ITKAM-Italian Chamber of Commerce for Germany and Deutsche Messe AG; Accelerating sustainable electrification: the key to economic and social development on the African continent by the RES4Africa Foundation, and Decarbonising Italy’s Electricity by Ibesa.

The full programme on the here

Source: KEY-The Energy Transition Expo

World Energy Day – From Initiative to Ambitious Goals for Green Energy

Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik)

Although in recent years the importance of sustainable energy use and production has become one of the most significant global issues, this topic was discussed much earlier. The United Nations established World Energy Day on February 14, 1949, to promote awareness of the importance of energy, encourage the adoption of more responsible energy efficiency practices, and consider alternative energy sources.

Thanks to such initiatives and decisions, we now have a heightened awareness that sets ambitious goals before us, such as reducing emissions by 50 percent by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Fossil fuels are still dominant, accounting for more than 70 percent of the world’s total energy supply. These energy sources, such as coal and oil, are among the primary drivers of climate change. Although there has been a decrease compared to 2022, when fossil fuels made up more than 80 percent, additional efforts are needed to achieve the set goals.

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The first international conference dedicated to energy efficiency and alternative energy production methods was held in Austria in 1998, with hundreds of experts and leaders from countries around the world in attendance.

In 2015, the UN General Assembly adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which includes a specific goal on energy—SDG 7—calling to “ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.” Achieving SDG 7 will create opportunities for millions of people through economic growth, new jobs, the empowerment of women, children, and youth, better education and healthcare, more sustainable communities, and greater resilience to climate change.

Energy portal

The Beaver as an Uninvited Builder: Natural Solutions Beyond Human Reach

Photo-illustration: Freepik (wirestock)

The realization of any project, regardless of its type – whether it’s residential buildings, road infrastructure, or something else – requires careful planning and a series of steps. From initial conceptual designs, through their refinement, to finding experts, obtaining necessary permits, and securing funding. While this process is crucial for progress, it often comes with challenges, especially when it takes place in natural ecosystems, particularly those under protection.

In times of ecological crisis, when preserving nature is a priority, many projects must be carefully considered in terms of their environmental impact. Even when intentions are good and the goal is to improve and protect natural habitats, the realization process can inadvertently disrupt those very habitats. Machinery entering hard-to-reach areas, human presence disturbing the peace of flora and fauna – all of this can upset the delicate balance of an ecosystem, despite the positive intentions behind the effort.

However, nature, in its subtle way, always has an answer. Imagine planning and working on a wetland ecosystem project for years, only to suddenly find that nature has completed the task on its own – without any human intervention. In the Czech Republic, beavers took over a human-planned project and created in just two days what took authorities seven years to design.

In the protected landscape area of Brdy, beavers built several dams that transformed the surrounding terrain into natural wetland areas. They constructed a dam on the Klabava River below a fishpond, along with several smaller dams on flooded meadows, creating new ponds and expanding floodplain areas. These dams played a key role in creating new wetland ecosystems, which will significantly benefit numerous animal species.

Essentially, the beavers saved around 1.2 million euros – the estimated cost of the project’s realization. By doing so, they demonstrated that nature, with its remarkable abilities, often provides solutions that are far wiser and more efficient than human-made ones. This example reminds us of the importance of listening to nature, understanding its processes and strengths, and realizing that only through cooperation with nature can we build a sustainable and secure world for all of us. The key often lies in the balance that nature already possesses.

Katarina Vuinac

Responsibility for Sustainability: Business Practices as an Opportunity for Change

Photo: ProCredit Bank

Sustainable business is a concept that has recently gained both significance and popularity. ProCredit Bank Serbia has undertaken a series of initiatives to contribute to sustainable practices in its operations to ensure it doesn’t remain just a buzzword. On this journey, we have found an unexpected but reliable partner—our clients. Together, we form a harmonious ecosystem that achieves remarkable results not only in business but also in the domain of sustainability.

Clients as Catalysts for Change

Through our previous practices—first with the initiatives of our Holding, of which we are a member bank, and then through changes and processes we implemented locally, as detailed in our standalone report (Sustainability Report)—we have taken on the responsibility for sustainability.

This responsibility extends beyond considering what actions we can take to ensure the positive impact of our operations on the environment and the community. We also take responsibility for the long-term effects we indirectly influence, such as our clients’ business practices. For this reason, at the Holding level, we have decided to strictly ensure that the organizations we collaborate with align with our values and responsibilities.

IN FOCUS:

Direct and Indirect Impacts from a Sustainability Perspective

The idea of working exclusively with individuals and organizations striving for sustainable practices is reflected in our green portfolio. This portfolio represents one of three pillars on which our approach to environmental preservation is based:

  • Internal Environmental Management System – This system involves monitoring energy and resource consumption within the bank, systematically and strategically reducing it, raising employee awareness, and collaborating with green suppliers.
  • Managing Environmental and SocialRisks inLending – In Serbia, we implement an environmental protection management system based on the continuous assessment of our credit portfolio according to the criteria of environmental protection and clients’ social responsibility. This includes a thorough analysis of all economic activities that pose potential risks to the environment and the community and rejection of credit applications from companies involved in environmentally risky activities or those listed under excluded activities by our institution.
  • Green Loan Portfolio – After promoting investment in the green economy for over a decade, we have expanded our range of green financing products and services, including loans for energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, and other environmental protection measures for businesses, households, and individuals.

The Future is Green: Clients as Partners on the Path to Sustainability

Our journey toward achieving net-zero emissions in Scope 3 is client-focused. We recognize the significant role and responsibility the financial sector plays in supporting the decarbonization of the real economy. This is one reason why we are committed to actively engaging with our clients to support their transition toward achieving net-zero emissions.

ProCredit Bank

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS