Vujović: Subsidies for Electric Vehicles to Continue in 2025

10.01.2025

money-2696219_1920 — Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

The Ministry of Environmental Protection will continue to subsidize the purchase of electric vehicles in 2025, marking the sixth consecutive year of this initiative as part of efforts to improve air quality.

Irena Vujović, Minister of Environmental Protection, highlighted that over the past five years, around 2,800 environmentally friendly vehicles have been purchased with the support of the Ministry.

According to her, subsidizing electric vehicles is a crucial measure for improving air quality, and its implementation will continue this year as well.

„The current plan is for the Government of Serbia to adopt the Regulation on the Conditions and Procedure for Subsidized Purchase of New Electric Vehicles for 2025 by the end of January. This will allow individuals and legal entities to submit applications and qualify for this form of state support starting in February. Last year, we allocated 170 million dinars for this purpose, but due to the large number of valid applications, we secured additional funds and spent a total of 205 million dinars. If interest exceeds the allocated amount again this year, we will strive to provide additional funds”, said Vujović.

She added that the subsidy amounts will depend on the type of electric vehicle and will range from 250 to 5,000 euros. State subsidies will also be available to future buyers of the electric „Panda” car produced in the Kragujevac factory, with a subsidy of 5,000 euros planned for this passenger vehicle.

After the adoption of the 2025 Regulation, which will specify the amounts and procedures for applying for subsidies this year, the Ministry of Environmental Protection’s website will publish a form with details of the required documentation. The deadline for submitting applications will, as in previous years, be October 31, to ensure all applications are processed within the current year, the Ministry stated in its announcement.

Energetski portal

Collision of Two Weather Extremes in the USA

09.01.2025

požar — Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik AI)

Although the Balkans are characterized by a temperate climate, in recent years, we have increasingly faced frequent and intense weather extremes. Extended dry periods are interrupted by heavy rains causing floods, and the beginning of January has been marked by spring-like temperatures. When we turn the globe and look at the other side, in the United States, we observe even more dramatic climatic extremes currently taking place.

On the west coast of the United States, in Los Angeles, a wildfire broke out on Tuesday morning and spread to nearly 3,000 hectares in the Pacific Palisades in less than 24 hours. This fire has been described as the worst in Southern California since 2011. In the same area, three additional fires have been reported, one of which has burned over 2,000 hectares. These events have been exacerbated by strong winds reaching speeds of up to 145 kilometers per hour. Due to these conditions, the use of planes and helicopters to extinguish the fires has been severely hindered. The city of Pasadena issued an emergency alert regarding the safety of drinking water, advising residents to use only bottled water for all purposes.

Moving towards the eastern part of the United States presents a completely different picture. In almost the same time frame, a powerful winter storm struck the eastern region, bringing blizzards, heavy snowfall, and extremely low temperatures. Areas affected include Kansas, Missouri, Maryland, Virginia, and others. Extreme weather conditions led to airport closures, temperatures nearing -20 degrees Celsius, impacting around 60 million people, and causing power outages.

Some areas declared states of emergency, and meteorologists warned that this winter storm could be the harshest in the past decade, forecasting another storm likely to bring even more snow from Friday to Saturday.

The impact of climate change is evident in the fact that Texas, known for its typically mild winters, is also under a weather warning.

These events serve as a reminder of the power and unpredictability of nature while urging us to act in the fight against climate change and strive for a future where such extremes are exceptions rather than the norm.

Katarina Vuinac

Czechia Updates National Climate and Energy Plan: Focus on Renewable Energy and Nuclear Power

09.01.2025

nuclear-power-plant — Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

At the end of 2024, the Government of the Czech Republic approved the update of the National Climate and Energy Plan, a joint initiative developed by the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Ministry of the Environment. The updated plan focuses on potential development scenarios for the Czech energy sector until 2030, emphasizing compliance with European targets while ensuring energy supply security.

Following government approval, the updated plan envisions a significant increase in capacities from renewable energy sources and nuclear energy to meet climate targets in the most cost-effective way. The strategy highlights the role of renewable energy sources and nuclear power, while gas remains an important part of the energy plan, as stated on the Ministry of Industry and Trade’s website.

The plan outlines that the share of RES in electricity production will grow from 16.5 percent in 2023 to 28 percent by 2030 and further to 46 percent by 2050. It is projected that nuclear energy will account for approximately 44 percent of electricity production by 2030, with new reactors expected to increase this share to 68 percent by 2040. Additionally, 28 percent of heat energy in the Czech Republic currently comes from renewable sources, with plans to increase this share to 40 percent by 2030 and 74 percent by 2050.

The plan details the role of natural gas as a transitional energy source, which, due to its stability and ability to provide quick production, complements the less predictable output from renewable sources. However, it is anticipated that gas will gradually phase out from the energy mix, replaced by renewable and low-emission gases, including hydrogen.

The goal of the updated plan is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 55 percent by 2030 through the development of RES, improvement of storage and system flexibility, energy savings, and the gradual elimination of fossil fuels, including the complete cessation of coal mining and combustion by 2033. It also envisions a fivefold increase in energy production from solar panels and wind turbines, an increase in building renovation rates (currently supported through the „New Green Savings” program), and the development of nuclear energy.

Currently, the Czech Republic operates six nuclear reactors that generate about one-third of its electricity. The plan includes significant capacity expansion, with up to four new large energy blocks and the introduction of up to 3 GW of capacity from small modular reactors.

This update comes after the Czech Republic was among 13 EU member states criticized by the European Commission for delays in submitting the updated version of the document, leading to infringement proceedings. However, following months of negotiations and finalization, the updated plan avoided severe penalties. It now places greater emphasis on renewables and nuclear power as the foundation of future electricity production, along with an expanded role for gas sources and a crucial commitment to phasing out coal use by 2033.

With this plan, a drastic reduction in energy import dependency is anticipated by 2050, provided the outlined goals are achieved.

Energy portal

Germany Sets New Record – 62.7 percent of Electricity from Renewables in 2024

08.01.2025

According to an analysis by Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE, the country achieved a new milestone in 2024, with renewable energy sources accounting for 62.7 percent of net public electricity generation.

Last year was particularly favorable for the development of solar energy. Newly installed solar capacities continued to exceed the federal government’s targets, with solar energy production reaching a new record of 72.2 terawatt hours (TWh). This represents an increase of approximately 10.8 TWh, or 18 percent, compared to the previous year, with solar energy accounting for 14 percent of net public electricity generation.

With 8.7 TWh, July 2024 marked the month with the highest solar energy production. Once again, solar expansion surpassed government targets, with 13.3 gigawatts (GW) installed by November 2024, exceeding the planned 13 GW. Although full energy data for 2024 is not yet available, the institute estimates that new solar capacity added in the past year amounted to 15.9 GW.

In 2024, wind energy remained Germany’s most significant source of electricity, generating 136.4 TWh and accounting for 33 percent of net public electricity production. However, onshore wind production decreased to 110.7 TWh (compared to 115.3 TWh in 2023), while offshore wind generation slightly exceeded the previous year’s level at 25.7 TWh.

The expansion of new wind energy capacities fell short of expectations in 2024. Onshore installations amounted to just 2.44 GW by November 2024, compared to the planned 7 GW. Offshore installations performed slightly better than in previous years but remained far below expectations. Germany added 0.7 GW of offshore capacity in 2024, while plans called for 5–7 GW annually, aiming for 30 GW by 2030.

Hydropower production in 2024 totaled 21.7 TWh, approximately equal to the 2023 level of 19.7 TWh, while the installed capacity of river plants increased from 4.94 GW to 6.4 GW. Biomass also contributed 36 TWh of electricity, with installed capacity remaining unchanged at 9.1 GW.

In addition to net public electricity production, total net electricity production includes electricity generated by industries for their own consumption. The share of renewable energy in total net electricity production, including industrial plants in manufacturing, mining, and quarrying, reached 58.6 percent in 2024.

Renewable energy plants generated approximately 275.2 TWh of electricity in 2024, a 4.4 percent increase compared to 2023 (267 TWh), the institute stated.

Milena Maglovski

Green Mobility Is A Key Part Of The European Green Deal

08.01.2025

The European Green Deal sets ambitious goals for all EU members, which are essential to addressing today’s biggest challenge: climate change. Along with the efficient and rational use of energy, one of its most important areas is the transition to green mobility, which includes electric vehicles and the infrastructure for charging them.

According to the European Commission’s “Ready for 55” legislative package, road traffic will move towards zero-emission mobility by 2050, reducing average emissions from new cars by 55 percent by 2030.

It is also important to note that, in accordance with the new and amended directives EU ETS (European Emissions Trading System), EED (Energy Efficiency Directive), and EPBD (Energy Performance of Buildings Directive), road traffic will be included in the emissions trading system. Darko Zeljković, in charge of further developing e-mobility in Southeastern Europe at Schneider Electric, talks about green mobility.

Q: From Schneider Electric’s perspective, what awaits us in the field of green mobility in the context of the new and amended directives?

A: The new obligations facing us as producers, buyers, and consumers will lead to a significant increase in the use of electric cars. Statistics show that the number of electric vehicles sold in the European Union is growing three times faster than the number of chargers for those vehicles. That is why it is necessary to start building the infrastructure for charging vehicles for short and long trips in our region. Regarding infrastructure, we must be aware that it includes not only publicly accessible areas but also private areas, i.e., private connections.

The leaders of the current wave of traffic electrification in Serbia and Montenegro are primarily companies that are increasingly introducing electric vehicles to their company car fleets and equipping their existing garages and parking spaces with adequate chargers. One of them is our company, Schneider Electric, which, as a signatory of the global initiative EV100, has the ambition to replace its vehicle fleet with electric vehicles by 2030 completely. In addition to them, a significant role is played by hotels, catering facilities, shopping centers, public garages, and parking spaces, which want to provide more services to their users.

IN FOCUS:

Q: We know that publicly available chargers will not be able to meet the charging needs of electric cars. Can we expect them in private buildings and houses?

A: It is essential to develop a network of publicly accessible chargers along the highways, near the hubs of crucial roads and public transport stations. Here, the great importance of domestic companies (Charge Point Operators and eMobility Service Providers), which in previous years, regardless of the small number of electric cars registered in Serbia, recognized this need and started or continued their business in the direction of infrastructure development charger. Thanks to them, today, through their networks and applications for charging and payment, we have around 150 chargers available in Serbia and around 30 in Montenegro.

The efforts of PE Roads of Serbia to expand its network of publicly accessible chargers along the main road routes in Serbia, which currently has eight fast chargers, by the end of this year from a new 50 and by the end of 2025 to total of 114 fast chargers of different power, are commendable.

I hope that their intentions will come true. Along with the already mentioned domestic companies, they will provide electric vehicle drivers with a safe and secure ride and a user experience of the highest level, especially during the summer months, when a large number of transit passengers from Europe are on our roads.

I want to emphasize that the latest amendments to the Law on Planning and Construction of the Republic of Serbia will significantly contribute to the further development of infrastructure and the increase in the number of chargers in residential buildings, commercial buildings, and along roads. Commercial, multi-apartment buildings and houses play a significant role in the provision of infrastructure because vehicles are regularly parked there for long periods of time.

Cars with internal combustion engines are usually charged on the road. Expert estimates show that in the future, as much as 90 percent of electric car charging will be at the destination, home, or work. Charging at the destination will increase electricity consumption by 40 percent in buildings, ultimately leading to an increase in electricity costs for each building, that is, for each household. That is why, right now, there is an ideal opportunity for buildings undergoing some renovation to adapt to the future increased electricity consumption and the need to prepare installations for electric vehicle chargers.

Schneider Electric

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine ECOLOGICAL TRANSPORT.

Boosting Green Megawatts for Kragujevac

07.01.2025

solar, solarni paneli — Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Jadon Kelly)

Thanks to ongoing efforts to enhance energy efficiency and the growing interest in clean energy, new solar power plants have enriched Serbia, further expanding its solar capacity with additional green megawatts. These investments reduce dependence on fossil fuels and lay the foundation for a sustainable future, creating new opportunities for local economic development.

Solar power plants on the rooftops of Pavilion 1, Pavilion 2, Pavilion 3 (in preparation), and Pavilion 4 serve as an excellent example of how change can be initiated. These plants were implemented based on the investor’s needs, the Student Center Kragujevac, which recognized the importance of renewable energy. With the support of these and similar projects, Kragujevac is joining cities focused on improving the local energy sector, where every project, regardless of its scale, is a bold step toward sustainable development.

The comprehensive technical and project documentation for the student complex was handled by CEEFOR, a company renowned for its extensive experience in the renewable energy sector. Over the years, CEEFOR has tackled a wide range of challenging projects, demonstrating adaptability in designing various solar systems, whether for ground-mounted installations or, as in this case, rooftop projects.

Pavilions of the Future

The solar power plant on the rooftop of Pavilion 1 at the Student Center Kragujevac, with a capacity of 15 kW AC, was installed to increase energy efficiency and the energy independence of the building. The roof houses 32 photovoltaic panels from Luxor Solar, each with a power output of 545 Wp. Mounted on an aluminum substructure by Chiko, the panels are designed to withstand diverse weather conditions, including winds up to 60 m/s and snow loads of up to 1.8 kN/m², ensuring system durability. The DC electricity generated by the panels is converted into AC by a 15 kW Fronius inverter. The plant is expected to produce approximately 20,809.6 kWh of electricity annually and save 1.3 tons of CO2 annually.

On Pavilion 2, a solar power plant with a capacity of 35 kW AC has been installed, resulting in different specifications compared to the first pavilion. The roof of Pavilion 2 features 74 photovoltaic panels from Luxor Solar, each with a power output of 545 Wp, arranged on the northwest and northeast sides of the roof at a 6° angle and on the southwest side at a 13° angle. The system utilizes two Fronius inverters, one with a capacity of 20 kW and the other with 15 kW. It is estimated that this pavilion will annually reduce CO2 emissions by 1.2 tons, a tangible step toward cleaner air and a healthier city.

IN FOCUS:

For Pavilion 3, a solar power plant with the same output capacity of 35 kW AC is in preparation. The plant will cover a total area of approximately 186.2 m² on the roof of the third pavilion. It is planned to install 72 photovoltaic panels, each with a power output of 570 Wp, again from Luxor Solar, as in the previous cases. The system will use two Fronius inverters, one with a capacity of 20 kW and the other with 15 kW. The facility is expected to produce 41,149.2 kWh of electricity annually, with a projected CO2 savings of 1.1 tons.

On Pavilion 4, a solar power plant with a capacity of 25 kW AC has been designed. The roof has 49 photovoltaic panels from Luxor Solar, each with a power output of 545 Wp. The plant will use two inverters: a 15 kW and a 10 kW model, both manufactured by Fronius. Similar to the other pavilions, the estimated annual CO2 savings for this pavilion are 1.25 tons.

All electricity generated by the solar power plants on these pavilions will power their internal systems, with any excess energy supplied to the distribution grid following the prosumer model.

CEEFOR, responsible for designing these solar power plants, will continue to advance its vision through a series of diverse projects in the future, reaffirming its commitment to sustainable solutions and adherence to the principles of environmental responsibility and energy efficiency.

Prepared by Milica Vučković

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine ECOLOGICAL TRANSPORT.

Solar Tricycle – A Revolution in Sustainable Mobility

05.01.2025

bicikl — Photo-illustration: Pixabay ( Lulian Scutelnicu)

In an era of climate change and increasing environmental pollution, innovations in sustainable transport are becoming crucial for the future of our planet. Sustainable transport solutions, such as electric and solar-powered vehicles, not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also help conserve natural resources and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Aleksandar Ilijevski from Leskovac, an electromechanical technician and electric vehicle enthusiast, has a unique story about his passion for innovations in sustainable transport. His love for electric bikes, which began more than a decade ago, eventually led him to the idea of creating a solar tricycle.

Although the initial concept faced obstacles due to the underdeveloped technology of solar panels at the time, Aleksandar never lost sight of his vision. He built his first electric tricycle in 2013 but soon realized that the solar panels available at the time lacked the power to run it. For years, the tricycle operated solely on battery power, with the idea of mounting a solar panel on the roof, waiting for the right moment. Nearly ten years later, with more powerful solar panels available, Aleksandar installed one on his electric tricycle once again.

„The idea ended up in a drawer until I recently saw an ad for solar panels. When I read the specifications and saw how much stronger they’ve become compared to those ten years ago, I immediately realized they could power the electric tricycle we had already built. I decided to give it a try. Our first test rides were without a battery, proving that the solar tricycle could run solely on sunlight — and at a decent speed. The feeling was truly surreal”, Aleksandar explains.

IN FOCUS:

Solar Energy for the Sustainable Transport of the Future

The importance of solar energy in sustainable transport is immense. Solar-powered vehicles offer the possibility of unlimited range under the right conditions, making them not only environmentally friendly but also economical. With the ongoing development of more powerful and affordable solar panels, solar-powered vehicles are gradually entering the realm of practical application, providing sustainable alternatives for future transport.

The innovator from Leskovac has demonstrated this with his solar tricycle, sending a message that solar-powered vehicles can belong to everyone and can be made from readily available materials. Thanks to technological advances, his tricycle now has the potential for unlimited range under ideal solar conditions. Additionally, a small battery allows it to run even when sunlight is insufficient.

Prepared by Milena Maglovski

Read the whole story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine ECOLOGICAL TRANSPORT

How Green Zones are Transforming the Urban Landscape

04.01.2025

bicycle-bicikl — Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Wal)

In recent years, numerous initiatives have emerged in major European cities to make transportation more sustainable and reduce harmful gas emissions. The European Commission and local authorities are working to accelerate the transition to eco-friendly vehicles. One of the key steps in this process is the introduction of green zones—areas in cities where access to polluting vehicles is restricted or prohibited.

Green zones, also known as Low Emission Zones (LEZs), are areas where vehicle movement is strictly controlled based on environmental performance. Vehicles that emit high levels of pollutants, such as nitrogen dioxide and carbon dioxide, are often restricted from entering these zones. These measures aim to reduce air pollution, particularly severe in large cities, and encourage citizens to switch to cleaner modes of transportation, such as electric cars, bicycles, or walking.

IN FOCUS:

Examples from European Cities

London has pioneered green zones by introducing the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). This zone covers a large part of central London and requires all vehicles to meet strict environmental standards. Those who fail to meet these standards must pay a daily charge. ULEZ is expected to expand soon to cover more areas of London, aiming to reduce pollution and promote the use of electric and hybrid vehicles.

Paris is another leader in eco-friendly initiatives, with its Low Emission Zones (Zones à faibles émissions). Vehicles with low environmental standards are banned from certain areas, and the city has ambitious plans to eliminate all fossil fuel vehicles by 2030. Paris is also known for its extensive network of bike lanes, which helps reduce traffic congestion and pollution in the city center.

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Mircea lancu)

Berlin was one of the first cities to introduce a green zone back in 2008. Only vehicles with a special eco-sticker indicating low emissions are allowed to enter these zones. The German capital demonstrates its commitment to reducing gas emissions and improving air quality by continuously tightening environmental standards within these zones.

The world’s fashion capital, Milan, has established a Low Emission Zone called Area C. This zone covers the city center, and vehicles not meeting the required standards must pay a fee to enter. Milan enforces strict regulations for older and diesel cars and strongly promotes the use of public transport and eco-friendly vehicles. Known for its biking culture,

Amsterdam introduced green zones in 2009. Older diesel vehicles are banned from certain parts of the city, and local authorities have set the ambitious goal of phasing out fossil fuel-powered vehicles by 2030. This initiative encourages the development of electric vehicles and supports the expansion of the city’s well-established biking culture.

Prepared by Milena Maglovski

Read the whole story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine ECOLOGICAL TRANSPORT

Innovative Solution for Arsenic Removal from Water

03.01.2025

by-Anna-from-Pixabay — Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Anna)

One of the biggest global challenges facing modern society today is the decreasing availability of safe, potable water resources. Elevated arsenic levels in groundwater, a primary drinking water resource worldwide, seriously threaten public health.

Photo: Private archive, member of the NanoCompAss project team Marija Maletin

A multidisciplinary team of scientists from the Faculty of Sciences at the University of Novi Sad and the Institute for Multidisciplinary Research at the University of Belgrade is implementing the NanoCompAs project to develop an innovative and long-term sustainable solution for arsenic removal from water. The significance of research in this area has been recognized by the Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia, which has facilitated the NanoCompAs project as part of the Green Program for Science and Industry Collaboration. Adsorption is the most commonly applied technique for arsenic removal in drinking water treatment due to its high cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and technical simplicity in handling and process control. Most commercially available adsorbents require pretreatment to convert arsenic into a removable form, but this adds to the cost of water treatment, making it less feasible for less-developed areas most affected by this issue. Researchers are actively developing high-efficiency nanomaterial-based adsorbents to find an effective and affordable solution. One next-generation material is FeMn binary oxide (FMBO) nanoparticles, which have already shown high arsenic removal efficiency in laboratory settings but are challenging to implement in continuous-flow systems.

IN FOCUS:

To overcome these limitations, the NanoCompAs project will develop a bifunctional nanocomposite filter medium (FMBOnc), forming the basis for commercializing the product—a filter applicable to continuous water treatment processes. The next step will involve scaling up the production of the filter medium to ensure sufficient material quantities for further laboratory and semi-industrial research. Initial testing of the filter will include physical-chemical characterization, quality control, and arsenic removal efficiency assessments.

The project team is exploring potential solutions to extend the lifespan of FMBOnc and enable its reuse. Depending on requirements, they are also evaluating options for stabilizing the material before disposal in landfills. Semi-industrial-scale research, which includes treating larger quantities of groundwater from the Autonomous Province of Vojvodina, will confirm the effectiveness of FMBOnc in reducing arsenic levels in water.

As a team, we anticipate that the NanoCompAs project will develop an economical and efficient solution for removing arsenic from drinking water, significantly improving the health and quality of life of people in regions affected by this problem. The project’s results will also benefit policymakers and the academic community focused on environmental protection technologies.

The NanoCompAs Project Team

Read the whole story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine ECOLOGICAL TRANSPORT

Solar Power Plants – Long-term Profitability

02.01.2025

IMG_20241008_130949 (1) — Photo: MT-KOMEX BH

Achieving energy independence has become a crucial issue for many countries and companies. Due to increasing concerns about climate change, instability in the fossil fuel market, and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, renewable energy sources are becoming more important. They offer the possibility of reducing dependence on traditional energy sources and provide significant environmental benefits. Investments in renewable energy enable businesses and communities to generate clean energy, reduce costs, and contribute to sustainable development. More and more companies in Bosnia and Herzegovina recognize the advantages of energy independence through investments in renewable energy sources. The importance of energy independence has also been acknowledged by AgrekS d.o.o. from Donji Žabar.

As a leader in the production of consumer eggs in Bosnia and Herzegovina, this company promotes a healthy environment by offering high-quality food products and environmental care. Now, it plans to use renewable energy in its production. The company is preparing to construct two solar power plants on the roof of its business premises, which will further enhance its operations and reduce its dependence on traditional energy sources.

The solar power plants, Jeremičak 1 and Jeremičak 2, each with a capacity of 222.72 kWp, will produce 540 megawatt-hours of electricity annually.

“The location is favorable for building a solar power plant due to high solar irradiation and many sunny days. The roof area is open and oriented southwest, enhancing the system’s efficiency. The panels will be installed at a 6° angle, aligning with the roof slope,” said Bojan Lazić, an electrical engineer on the project. The solar power plants will utilize solar panels from AIKO Solar and Huawei’s inverter systems. Other equipment from globally renowned brands guarantees long-term use and stable electricity production.

IN FOCUS:

These two facilities will be connected to the existing 10-kilovolt power line Batkuša–Obudovac and integrated into the power distribution network. A new transformer station will be built to meet the power plants’ needs.

Thanks to its extensive experience in renewable energy, MT-KOMEX BH has been recognized as a reliable and trusted partner for constructing solar power plants. Their expert team provides a comprehensive turnkey approach, covering all phases—from planning and designing the power plant model to equipment delivery, construction, and system functionality checks.

The company uses state-of-theart technology and equipment from renowned manufacturers, further guaranteeing the efficiency and longevity of its solutions.

Their commitment to green technologies reduces environmental impact and optimizes resource usage, enabling clients to achieve sustainable goals.

The quality of the company’s work is best reflected in the list of satisfied clients who have used its services and achieved significant energy savings, thus improving their operations, reducing costs, and becoming energy independent.

Additionally, the company actively assists clients in transitioning to green practices, facilitating their shift towards sustainable operations and reducing carbon emissions. This support will help them adapt to new regulations when the CBAM mechanism becomes active in 2026.

Prepared by Jasna Dragojević

Read the whole story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine ECOLOGICAL TRANSPORT

Serbia’s Most Important Energy and Environmental Projects in 2024

01.01.2025

eko — Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik)

In 2024, Serbia continued its path toward energy transition, sustainability, and a healthier environment.

One of the first steps was the decision to double the funds allocated for the energy rehabilitation of public buildings and households compared to 2023.

Two key milestones in Serbia’s energy sector development were the adoption of the Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan for the period up to 2030, with projections to 2050, and the approval of the Draft Law on Amendments to the Energy Law. The first marks a new stage in Serbia’s energy transition by providing a clear roadmap for sustainable energy sector development. The second aims to meet obligations under the Energy Community Treaty, aligning with European standards and enhancing the country’s energy security.

A notable achievement was the commissioning of the flue gas desulfurization plant at the Nikola Tesla A thermal power plant, described as the largest environmental project. Another significant milestone was the commissioning of the Krivača wind farm in Golubac, the largest in the region and the first in Eastern Serbia. Additional achievements include a new biomass heating plant in Majdanpek, a newly constructed substation in Mrčajevci, the rehabilitation of the “Krivi Vir” boiler within the Niš District Heating Plant, and several others.

In late November, the second round of auctions for market premiums for renewable energy sources was announced, allowing investors to bid for a total quota of 424.8 MW.

Energy Support and Cooperation

For the development of renewable energy in district heating systems across Serbia, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) allocated €3 million. The European Union also supported the second phase of the “Renewable Energy Sources – Biomass Market Development in the Republic of Serbia” program with €10 million in grants. Additionally, a contract was signed with the European Investment Bank for the procurement and installation of around 400,000 smart meters nationwide.

A contract was signed with the consortium of “Hyundai Engineering” and “UGT Renewables” for the construction of self-balancing solar power plants in Serbia. The project includes energy storage systems with a total capacity of 200 MW, enabling the installation of 1 GW of new solar power capacity.

A Memorandum of Understanding was agreed upon in August for constructing the Serbia-Romania gas interconnector. This project will provide an additional natural gas supply route, linking the Mokrin hub in Serbia with the BRUA gas pipeline in Romania.

In 2024, electricity markets in Hungary, Serbia, and Slovenia were unified, simplifying and enhancing the efficiency of electricity trading in the region.

Throughout the year, numerous discussions were held with representatives of countries worldwide to strengthen cooperation in the energy sector, gas supply, and energy transition. Key partners included Japan, China, Greece, Montenegro, Spain, Russia, Azerbaijan, Norway, and others.

Environmental Protection

At the beginning of the year, four public calls were announced for ecological projects in cities and municipalities, with a total allocation of 1.25 billion dinars. These funds were designated for replacing boiler rooms in district heating systems, household heating systems, afforestation, greening projects, and cleaning illegal dumpsites.

A regulation on subsidizing the purchase of new electric vehicles was adopted, with the Ministry of Environmental Protection allocating 170 million dinars. This measure proved successful, as there was significant interest in purchasing electric vehicles, funding the acquisition of 357 vehicles.

Protected areas received 500 million dinars, the largest amount to date. In 2024, Serbia established several new protected areas, including the “Golija” Nature Park, the “Mojstirsko-Draške Planine” Special Nature Reserve, the “Veliki Jastrebac” Nature Park, and the “Rudnik Mountain” Landscape of Outstanding Features. Agreements were signed with managers of 93 protected areas, as well as agreements supporting afforestation and greening projects in 38 local governments. Additional investments were secured for protected areas across the country.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Vlad Kiselov)

Four environmental protection laws were adopted this year, focusing on environmental impact assessments, controlling the risk of major accidents involving hazardous substances, ratifying the Minamata Convention on Mercury, and strategic environmental assessments. These laws aim to align with European regulations and improve public participation in decision-making.

The first greenhouse gas emissions permit was issued to Nikola Tesla Airport in Belgrade, and a power plant in Vinča was commissioned to produce heat and electricity for Belgrade residents.

One significant agreement was signed in Bečej to expand and modernize a 30-year-old wastewater treatment plant. Agreements were also signed for reconstructing facilities in Pećinci and further modernizing the Regional Waste Management Center in Pirot, including building a composting plant for green and biodegradable waste.

Efforts to address unsanitary landfills began in Topola, Subotica, and Prokuplje, while illegal dumpsites were cleaned in Nova Crvenka. In Niš, 46 kilometers of sewer network were built, along with the country’s largest wastewater treatment plant. Construction of a wastewater treatment plant began in Sečanj, and agreements were signed for building sewer systems in Priboj, Bečej, and a city collector in Zrenjanin, improving wastewater management. In 2024, over 340 kilometers of sewer network were contracted or under construction across Serbia.

New waste collection trucks were provided to municipalities such as Titel, Temerin, Gornji Milanovac, Nova Crnja, Bela Crkva, Paraćin, and others.

By the end of the year, additional funds were secured to continue developing regional waste management centers across Serbia in 2025.

Katarina Vuinac

E-Mobility – Abb Way

31.12.2024

ChargInfrastructure_quad_A1 — Photo: ABB

In its latest report, the United Nations warns that the world has just 12 years to drastically reduce carbon emissions and limit global warming to 1.5°C. Currently, the temperature is already 1°C higher, and if we continue at this pace, we could see a rise of 3°C. To achieve the target reduction of 1.5°C, it is necessary to reduce carbon emissions by 45 percent by 2030.

Given that almost two-thirds of global carbon pollution comes from the transport and energy production sector, the European Union adopted the Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) to facilitate the transition to more sustainable transport. The regulation enables the expansion of fuel stations charging electric vehicles across Europe. By 2030, hundreds of new charging points are planned, including fast chargers for cars and heavy vehicles and hydrogen charging points.

The global stock of electric vehicles is expected to increase from 7.7 million to more than 85 million in the next decade. This change and infrastructure improvements could significantly reduce the transport sector’s carbon footprint and contribute to the fight against climate change.

Different technologies are used to charge electric vehicles, and the choice depends on the duration of the vehicle’s stay at the place where the charger is located. AC chargers have an effective power ranging from 3.6 to 11 kW, which allows a driving range of 15 to 50 km per hour of charging. Although some AC chargers can theoretically deliver up to 22 kW, in practice, the charging speed is often limited by the car’s built-in converter. Because of their relatively low cost, AC chargers are cost-effective for locations where cars stay longer, such as households or offices. On the other hand, DC chargers are preferred in public places where drivers tend to stay for a short time. These chargers allow fast charging, crucial at gas stations or while shopping, where charging is expected to take 15-30 minutes.

DC chargers are also useful in retail locations where people stay for an average of one to two hours. It is essential to choose the right type of charger depending on the driver’s needs.

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With its experience and time on the market, ABB stands out as a reliable partner in developing infrastructure for charging electric vehicles, combining technological innovations and high safety standards with financially viable solutions. The electrical infrastructure design for charging complies with the IEC 61000-6-3 standard, ensuring high safety for use in residential areas, offices, and public places, such as gas stations. ABB also has independent CE certificates, which guarantee safety against electric shocks and immunity to electromagnetic radiation. In addition, ABB DC fast chargers offer two payment models: membership and payment terminal. In the membership model, electric vehicle drivers opt for one of the offered prices by registering, while in the payment terminal, users simply swipe their credit card to start charging. This flexibility facilitates access to chargers and enables different payment options according to the user’s needs.

ABB provides global services with a focus on remote diagnostics. This technology makes it possible to solve more than 90 percent of service cases remotely, reducing costs and travel time while increasing the charging network’s availability. In other words, proactive monitoring of the charger, with more than 400 monitored parameters, enables quick identification and resolution of problems, further increasing the efficiency and profitability of services.

ABB

Read the whole story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine ECOLOGICAL TRANSPORT

Universal USB-C Chargers Reduce Electronic Waste in the EU

30.12.2024

4482 — Photo-illustration: Freepik (Mateus Andre)

In October 2022, the Council of the European Union approved the EU Common Charger Directive. Following this decision, a transitional period was introduced, allowing manufacturers to adjust their designs.

Two days ago, the official implementation of the rules began for mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, video game consoles, portable speakers, e-readers, keyboards, mice, and portable navigation systems sold within the European Union.

This decision mandates that all new devices must support USB-C charging. While the new rules already apply to most devices, laptop manufacturers have until April 28, 2026, to comply.

As part of this alignment, the introduction of a unified fast-charging standard will prevent manufacturers from deliberately limiting charging speeds when using chargers from other brands.

Manufacturers are now required to provide clear visual and written information about charger specifications, including the power required by the device and whether it supports fast charging. This will help consumers determine whether their existing charger meets the requirements of a new device.

By reducing the production of new chargers and better utilizing existing ones, a significant reduction in electronic waste is expected, contributing to environmental protection. According to data from the European Commission, discarded and unused chargers account for approximately 11,000 tons of such waste annually.

Katarina Vuinac

EBRD lends up to 105 million euros to Serbia to decarbonise district heating

30.12.2024

serbia-srbija-novi sad — Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is providing a sovereign loan of up to 105 million euros to Serbia, through the Ministry of Finance, to benefit Novosadska Toplana Novi Sad, the district heating company of Novi Sad. The project is expected to be co-financed by an investment grant of up to 21 million euros, plus tree million euros of project implementation assistance, from the European Union (EU) and other donors through the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF).

The loan will finance the construction of a large-scale solar-thermal power plant in Novi Sad, featuring 38,600 m² of solar collector fields, an 850,000 m³ seasonal heat storage system, a 17 megawatt (MW) heat pump and a 60 MW electric boiler, incorporating advanced power-to-heat technology.

The project is part of the Green Cities Window 3 Framework (GrCF3 W2 Framework) and is included in the Green City Action Plan (GCAP) being developed by the City of Novi Sad. Through the GCAP, the city has identified and prioritised its most pressing environmental challenges and set out targeted investments and policy actions to address them. The project will be implemented by Novosadska Toplana Novi Sad in conjunction with the Ministry of Mining and Energy, the city of Novi Sad, and state power company Elektroprivreda Srbije (EPS).

Producing more than 118,000 MWh of clean renewable heat energy annually, the project will reduce the district heating agency’s natural gas consumption by around 29 per cent. It will thus provide an efficient, reliable and environmentally friendly heat supply for households, public institutions and businesses in Novi Sad by delivering base heat energy capacity to the city’s district heating network using innovative technologies, while supporting Serbia’s efforts to decarbonise the sector.

In addition, seasonal thermal energy storage, combined with power-to-heat solutions, will enable the storage of surplus electricity from renewables, enhancing grid balancing capacity, supporting electricity market operations and reducing investment risks for new wind and solar photovoltaic (PV) renewable energy projects.

The loan agreement was signed by Siniša Mali, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of Serbia, while the project agreement was signed by Dubravka Đedović Handanović, Minister of Mining and Energy, and Nenad Barac, Director of Novosadska Toplana. Both agreements were signed by Matteo Colangeli, EBRD Regional Head of the Western Balkans, on behalf of the Bank.

„This project is innovative beyond Serbia and the region. The renewable energy solutions it will deliver to provide heat to Novi Sad and to balance the country’s electricity system, as well as the scale of the project, are groundbreaking on an international level. We are proud to support Novi Sad in this transformative investment, which will contribute to better air quality and cleaner, more affordable energy. With this loan, the EBRD closes 2024 with over 800 million euros of new investments in Serbia, underscoring our strong commitment to the country’s sustainable economic development”, said EBRD Director Matteo Colangeli.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Jadon Kelly)

„Efforts to decarbonise our energy sector cannot be complete if we do not include the production of thermal energy, which accounts for a significant share of the energy balance. We took the first steps by building four biomass heating plants, and I believe that the integration of a solar collector and a heat pump that uses the heat of the river Danube into the district heating system of Novi Sad will be a turning point that will show the way that other cities and municipalities in Serbia will follow. Thermal energy produced in a sustainable manner will cover more than 20 percent of Novi Sad’s heating needs, which will replace the consumption of more than 16 million cubic meters of natural gas. The project is unique in Serbia, in that it also includes an electric boiler for balancing excess electricity, which will provide additional capacity for balancing energy produced in solar and wind power plants”, said Dubravka Đedović Handanović, Mining and Energy Minister.

The EBRD is a leading institutional investor in Serbia and has invested more than nine billion euros through 367 projects to date, the majority of which have supported the private sector. The Bank’s focus in Serbia is on supporting private-sector competitiveness, the green energy transition and sustainable infrastructure.

Source: EBRD

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