Home Blog Page 5

Seven-Billion-Dollar Agreement for Syria’s Energy Recovery

Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (Matthew Henry)

Syria is investing in the reconstruction and development of its energy sector through strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening energy security and supporting the country’s economic recovery. To this end, it has signed a series of memorandums of understanding with international energy companies for the development of five major energy projects.

A strategic cooperation agreement was signed on May 29 at the Presidential Palace in Damascus, in the presence of Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, the Syrian Ministry of Energy, and representatives of a consortium of Qatari, Turkish, and American companies. The goal of the agreement is to generate 5,000 megawatts of electricity.

The agreement includes the development of four natural gas power plants with a total capacity of 4,000 MW, using American and European technology, as well as a 1,000 MW solar power plant in southern Syria.

The gas power plants are expected to be completed within three years, while the solar plant is expected to be finished in approximately two years.

More:

The investment is valued at around seven billion dollars, and this initiative is part of the national plan for rebuilding critical infrastructure, enhancing energy security, and supporting economic development.

Once completed, the projects are expected to meet more than 50 percent of Syria’s electricity needs, representing a significant step toward energy security and economic recovery.

“This agreement is a key step in rebuilding Syria’s energy infrastructure. It strengthens the national grid, expands access to electricity, and helps meet growing demand in line with local priorities,” said H.E. Mohammed Al Bashir, Syria’s Minister of Energy.

The projects will utilize American and European technology and are expected to create more than 50,000 direct and 250,000 indirect jobs.

Jasna Dragojević

Taxing Farmers Because Their Cows Emit Gases – A Real Solution to Climate Change?

Photo-illustration: Freepik (wirestock)

Have you ever thought someone could be taxed – because a cow emits gases? It sounds like a joke, but this is a topic being seriously debated in one European country.

When I decided to focus my education on environmental studies, I didn’t fully understand the breadth of the field. At first, ecology meant reducing pollution, greening spaces, and caring for animals. However, after enrolling in university and starting to work in the field, my understanding of ecology quickly broadened. It was challenging to connect all the information and grasp how deeply ecology permeates all aspects of social life.

After several years of daily study, I began to uncover various, sometimes unexpected, facets of this topic. One of the latest issues I encountered truly intrigued me, and I’d like to share it with you.

Back in university, we discussed how greenhouse gases influence climate change, especially methane – a far more potent pollutant than carbon dioxide. I was surprised to learn that livestock farms, particularly those with cows, are major sources of these emissions. In addition to the water and land required for food production – which releases stored carbon – the animals themselves produce methane during digestion, which they emit through, to put it plainly, flatulence.

Yes, exactly – the manure and gases released by livestock are now the subject of one of the most unusual environmental measures I’ve come across. It’s a “fart tax” introduced by a country known for its innovation and environmental awareness – Denmark.

When I first heard about the methane tax on Danish farms, I must admit I laughed. However, as I started to research the topic, I realized this measure is far more serious and complex than it initially appears. That’s why I wanted to investigate what lies behind this policy and why a country like Denmark chose to take this step.

How Can a “Fart Tax” Affect an Entire Country?

Photo-illustration: Freepik (wirestock)

This policy is formally known as a “flatulence tax” or Fart Tax and targets greenhouse gas emissions from cows, sheep, and pigs. Denmark has decided that, starting in 2030, farmers will pay a tax of 300 Danish kroner (about 43 USD) for emissions produced by their animals, calculated based on methane’s climate impact as if it were carbon dioxide. By 2035, the tax will increase to 750 kroner (about 106 USD).

What particularly caught my attention was the potential for farmers to receive a 60% tax refund. They can qualify for this refund by implementing measures to reduce methane emissions. My first thought was – how? Will the animals eat a diet that reduces gas production? As I dug deeper, I found out I was partially right. This reduction can be achieved by changing the animals’ diet, using specific feed additives, and employing technology that transforms manure into biogas, among other methods.

This raises the question: why did Denmark choose to implement such a policy specifically for the agricultural sector? The data I found shows that agriculture occupies around 65% of the country’s land, and Danish farms have five times more pigs and cows than people. This makes agriculture potentially the biggest climate polluter in Denmark.

Divided Opinions

Although this measure may seem beneficial at first glance, it has sparked a wide range of reactions. Some believe it’s politically motivated, claiming that farmers are an easy target for taxation, while larger polluters such as transportation and heating are avoided due to their political unpopularity. Even though farmers pay the tax, it’s believed the costs will ultimately fall on consumers through higher food prices. Others are concerned about the growing state control over production and the market, and they question the accuracy of emission calculations from farms.

I don’t know how effective this measure will be, what the real motives behind it are, or how valid the divided opinions may be. Still, the methane tax in Denmark raises an important issue – how can we truly reduce emissions in all sectors, including those often overlooked?

Interestingly, Denmark is not the first country to take this step. In 2022, New Zealand introduced a similar tax on agricultural emissions, but the new government later announced plans to abolish it following numerous complaints from farmers. This situation shows how sensitive and politically demanding such policies can be and raises the question – can such models survive in the long run?

We’ll have to wait and see whether Denmark will succeed in achieving tangible results and become a role model for other countries, or whether its fart tax will remain just another example of how complex and unpredictable the green transition can be.

Katarina Vuinac

Public Debate in Serbia on the Just Transition Action Plan

Photo-illustration: Rainbow

In line with the goals set in the Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan (INECP), adopted in July 2024, Serbia is set to implement an energy transition. To avoid potential negative consequences of this process, it is necessary to define and implement a just transition, which is why a Draft Just Transition Action Plan has been prepared.

The Ministry of Mining and Energy is conducting a public debate on this document, which will last until June 10, 2025. The Draft Action Plan is published on the Ministry’s website and on the “eConsultations” portal, where it is available for public review during the consultation period.

Proposals and suggestions regarding the Draft Action Plan can be submitted to the Ministry via email to: biljana.ramic@mre.gov.rs, using the comment form available on the aforementioned websites.

More:

The public debate will also include a presentation and consultations during a roundtable discussion, which will take place at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia in Belgrade, on June 9, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

After the conclusion of the public debate, the Ministry will analyze all received comments, proposals, and objections, and will publish a report on the consultation process on its website and on the “eConsultations” portal.

Energy portal

A Solar Recipe for Lower Bills

Photo: Pirke Solar

In a time overwhelmed by challenges—both globally and locally— entrepreneurs and industrialists are finding it increasingly difficult to identify efficient ways to increase the well-known top line of their business, i.e., revenue.

However, rather than focusing on complaints about difficult business conditions, uncertainty, and an increasingly unfavorable environment compared to previous years, some have decided that now is the right time to focus on the consumption their business generates.

Through a simple analysis of input costs—an unavoidable part of any production process—they come to a key conclusion: it is almost impossible to maintain profit margins and profitability without seriously reducing fundamental expenses, among which electricity consumption stands out.

In an era when the offer of renewable energy sources—especially solar solutions—is richer than ever, choosing the optimal system may not be simple. However, one thing is certain: business sustainability in turbulent times no longer lies in increasing revenue but in smart cost reduction.

Such an approach—focusing on savings through energy efficiency— was put into practice by the company Podrinje Komerc. After nearly a year of detailed analysis, calculations, and budgeting for an investment in their solar power plant, director and owner Ljubiša Žikić decided last fall that it was time to save—smartly.

Podrinje Komerc is a family-owned business with nearly two decades of experience in the production and processing of reinforcement steel. In its production process, the company consumed around 60 MWh of electricity per month, amounting to a cost of approximately 1.1 million dinars.

 IN FOCUS:

The company Pirke Solar, based in Belgrade, proposed a solution involving the installation of one megawatt of solar panels on the roof of the production hall, which will be implemented in three phases. The first phase alone, in line with the project plan, already yielded significant results: electricity consumption at the first facility was reduced by around 60 percent.

Photo: Pirke Solar

Even better results are expected during the summer months, when the days are longest and solar radiation is strongest—a saving of almost 80 percent is forecast, making this investment sustainable and highly profitable.

“Can it really be possible that a solar power plant can save me up to 80 percent on my electricity bill?” wondered Ljubiša Žikić, while studying the SolarEdge application and the experiences of other entrepreneurs across Serbia who had already entered the world of solar energy. It turned out that equipment quality makes a serious difference, regardless of roof type or orientation.

SolarEdge, one of the world’s leading brands in the production of inverters and related equipment for solar power plants, collaborated with Pirke Solar to develop a custom solution for the entire Podrinje Komerc project. The goal was clear: establishing a new benchmark for the efficiency and profitability of solar power plants in Serbia’s industrial sector.

In the first phase, 412 kW of capacity was installed along with 356 optimizers, which are a trademark of SolarEdge technology. The result came quickly: in March of this year, the power plant reached a record production of 33.2 MWh, accounting for almost a third of the factory’s total monthly consumption.

“I can’t wait for summer,” Žikić said with a smile, while already planning the implementation of the second and third phases of the solar power plant on the roof of his facility. The goal is to achieve additional savings and position the company as one of the energy leaders in the industrial sector of Western Serbia.

Prepared by Milena Maglovski

Read the story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY 

The U.S. Sets a New Goal: Quadrupling Nuclear Capacity by Mid-Century

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Jakob Madsen)

The United States has announced a significant shift in its energy policy through a series of executive orders issued by President Donald Trump. The goal is to increase nuclear energy capacity from the current 100 GW to as much as 400 GW by mid-century. After the initial doubling, another round of expansion is planned, effectively doubling existing capacity again—marking the most ambitious nuclear energy development plan in the country’s history.

The focus is on advanced reactors—small modular reactors (SMRs), microreactors, and fourth-generation technologies. The specific target includes building ten new large reactors by 2030, as well as upgrading existing facilities to add another 5 GW of capacity, according to World Nuclear News.

These decisions are also interpreted as an attempt to reclaim global leadership in the nuclear industry, as the U.S. has seen its position decline—over 85 percent of new reactors built worldwide since 2017 have relied on foreign technologies. President Trump has signed three key orders covering all aspects of the nuclear renaissance—from regulatory reform and testing of new technologies to boosting domestic nuclear fuel production.

More:

One order mandates the reorganization of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, which has been criticized for its lengthy and costly approval processes that have stalled industry growth. Over nearly half a century, very few reactors have been approved, and only two have been brought online. Moving forward, the Commission will be required to make licensing decisions within 18 months for new reactors and within 12 months for license extensions of existing ones.

A serious national security concern has been identified in the U.S. nuclear fuel supply chain, which heavily relies on imported uranium and foreign enrichment services. In response, the administration is proposing the establishment of a new domestic system for uranium enrichment and conversion, as well as a program for recycling plutonium and other surplus materials so they can be reused as fuel for advanced reactors. At the same time, the previous program for diluting excess plutonium is being abandoned in favor of its industrial use.

Energy portal

Social Leasing of Electric Vehicles – A Potential Solution for Three Million Low-Income Households in the EU

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (stux)

Up to three million low- and middle-income households in the five largest European countries could switch to electric vehicles by 2032 through a “social leasing” model, according to a new analysis by the organization Transport & Environment (T&E).

This scheme, which enables the leasing of electric vehicles at prices ranging from 130 to 215 euros per month, is already successfully operating in France and could be expanded to other EU member states.

The analysis, conducted by T&E based on data from Germany’s Öko-Institut, emphasizes that social leasing could become a key measure within national Social Climate Plans starting in 2026.

More:

Funding would be provided through revenues from the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS2) and the new EU Social Climate Fund. According to T&E estimates, up to 16 billion euros could be available for this purpose in Germany, Spain, France, Italy, and Poland by 2032.

The analysis shows that between 1.5 and 3 million households could benefit from social leasing, which would represent up to 27 percent of low-income households in rural areas. This initiative could also stimulate demand for electric vehicles in new market segments and support the European auto industry—provided governments favor domestic manufacturers.

T&E is calling on the European Commission to establish a unified “affordable electric vehicle platform” to help member states negotiate collectively with manufacturers and secure the most favorable vehicle procurement terms for social leasing programs.

Despite its great potential, T&E stresses that social leasing should not be the only measure to combat transport vulnerability. Additional initiatives are necessary, such as subsidies for bicycles, the expansion of public transportation, support for car-sharing, and the development of charging infrastructure.

Energy portal

The energy transition will lead to a sharp increase in copper demand

Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

Minerals are essential components of clean energy technologies—from wind turbines and power grids to electric vehicles. As the energy transition accelerates, demand for these minerals is growing at an extraordinary pace. A new report, Global Critical Minerals Outlook 2025, published by the International Energy Agency (IEA), presents the latest data and analysis on supply, demand, investment, and other key aspects.

The report focuses on minerals of critical importance, such as copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, graphite, and rare earth elements. The IEA warns that the growing concentration of production in the hands of a few countries, combined with the expansion of export restrictions, significantly increases the risk of severe disruptions in the supply chains of these strategic resources.

Demand for lithium rose by nearly 30 percent in 2024, far exceeding the average annual growth of 10 percent seen in the 2010s. However, strong supply growth—driven by China, Indonesia, and certain African regions—has put downward pressure on prices, especially for battery metals. Since 2020, the growth in the supply of these metals has been twice as fast as it was at the end of the previous decade.

More:

“When examining the supply-demand balance over the next decade, the report also highlights significant risks. Investment in the critical minerals sector is losing momentum: in 2024, it grew by only 5 percent, compared to 14 percent in 2023. Exploration activity stagnated throughout 2024, and early-stage capital for new projects shows signs of slowing,” the report states.

The report places particular emphasis on the major risks facing the copper market. As countries expand their power grids, copper demand is expected to surge. However, current projects suggest that by 2035 there could be a supply shortfall of up to 30 percent.

Supply security is increasingly threatened by export restrictions. Of all the minerals covered in the report, 55 percent are subject to some form of export control. These restrictions now extend beyond raw and refined materials to include processing technologies as well.

Energy portal

Wind Farms Alibunar 1 and 2 Bring New Energy to Serbia

Photo: wikipedia / vanilica
Photo: Courtesy of Neda Lazendić

Wind energy is one of the key renewable energy sources in Serbia and the wider region, with significant potential for further development. Serbia possesses favorable wind conditions, particularly in Vojvodina, eastern Serbia, and mountainous areas, where average wind speeds enable efficient electricity generation.

The Alibunar 1 and Alibunar 2 wind farms will soon become important to Serbia’s energy sector, delivering as much as 480 gigawatt-hours of green energy annually. These projects, led by SANY Renewable Energy, were developed in cooperation with Norwegian company Emergy and Dutch company WV-International, which has long-standing experience in the renewable energy sector in Serbia. We spoke with Neda Lazendić, Director of WV-International in Serbia, about the construction plans, the importance of these wind farms, and future investments.

IN FOCUS:

Q: Alibunar 1 and 2 wind farms were ranked highly in the Renewable energy auctions. Could you tell us more about these projects?

A: Yes, it’s true that our projects, Alibunar 1 and Alibunar 2, ranked second and third, respectively, on thefinal list of wind farms in the second round of renewable energy auctions organized by the Ministry of Mining and Energy of Serbia. The planned installed capacity of Alibunar 1 is 96.6 MW, and for Alibunar 2 it is 71.4 MW. These facilities will significantly contribute to increasing the capacity of green energy in Serbia’s energy mix.

Q: Who is currently behind these projects, and how were they developed?

A: The projects are majority-owned by SANY Renewable Energy, a global leader in wind turbine manufacturing based in China. They were developed in partnership with Norwegian developer Emergy, while WV-International, a Dutch company and one of the pioneers of renewable energy in Serbia, played a key role in their development, which began back in 2013.

Q: When does the construction of the wind farms begin, and which turbine model will be used?

A: We are currently in the pre-construction phase, with the start of works planned for the fourth quarter of this year. As for the turbines, we will use the SANY S168 model, manufactured by SANY Renewable Energy, with a capacity of 4.2 MW.

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (tookapic)

Q: How will the electricity be sold after construction is completed?

A: After the construction is completed and the farms are connected to the transmission grid, 100 percent of the planned production will be sold to Elektroprivreda Srbije AD (EPS). We already have a signed Pre-Contract with EPS for electricity sales over a period of 15 years.

Q: How much will the wind farms contribute to electricity production in Serbia?

A: Once operational, Alibunar 1 and Alibunar 2 will produce approximately 480 gigawatt-hours of electricity annually. This will significantly contribute to increasing the share of clean and green energy in the country’s overall energy mix and to the decarbonization of the energy mix of Elektroprivreda Srbije AD.

Q: Is WV-International planning new projects in Serbia?

A: Yes, WV-International and Emergy are continuing the development of wind farms with a total capacity of 571 MW within the Banat project complex. Additionally, we are working on the development of a 125 MW hybrid power plant that will combine wind and solar energy.

Interview by Milena Maglovski

The inteview was published in the Energy portal Magazine SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY 

The Development Of Electric Vehicles In Serbia – A Retrospective And A Look Ahead

Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (klemen-vrankar)

The beginnings of electric vehicle development in Serbia date back to the mid-1970s. Sharp increases in oil prices and the first oil crisis of 1973, known as the first oil shock, spurred the consolidation of knowledge and pioneering research in the field of electric car development. In 1976, under the leadership of academician Aleksandar Despić, the first electric delivery vehicle in Serbia, the TAM 2001 (an electric “baker’s” E-mobile), was developed at the Bureau for Autonomous Electric Vehicles within the Institute of Technical Sciences of the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts (SANU).

Photo: Coutresy of Zeljko Despotović

Three years later, in 1979, the Institute for Chemical Power Sources (IHIS) built a delivery vehicle based on the Zastava 435F. This vehicle became the first registered electric vehicle in the country and operated on public roads for several years. That same year, the first eco-friendly electric passenger car in former Yugoslavia was produced in Belgrade. Its designer was Professor Stojiljković, my mentor during my doctoral studies at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering in Belgrade. He modified a standard Trabant vehicle and designed a regulated electric motor drive using a direct current motor, along with a supporting DC/DC converter (a so-called chopper). The drive had an output power of around four kilowatts (kW), powered by a 140V/50Ah battery pack in the front of the vehicle. The Elektrotrabant reached a speed of around 50 km/h, with a range between 70 and 80 km, and was registered and used on the route from Block 45 (New Belgrade) to Zemun Polje. This reconstruction was carried out at the Centre for Chemical Power Sources of the Institute for Chemistry, Technology and Metallurgy (IHTM).

Interest in electric vehicles grew again during the sanctions and oil shortages from 1992. At that time, several specialized electric vehicles were developed, such as mopeds, bicycles, vehicles for disabled persons, and transport vehicles for multiple passengers in tourist centers. These vehicles had a maximum speed of 15 km/h and a range of up to 50 km.

The company Melbat developed the first commercial electric vehicle for everyday use at the end of 1994 and the beginning of 1995 – a reconstructed Lada Niva-E, used for municipal services in Belgrade.

In 1996, two autonomous electric Yugo-E vehicles were reconstructed to meet the needs of Elektrodistribucija Beograd.

The Fast Black Lada electric vehicle was launched at the beginning of 1998. It weighed about two tons and had a top speed of 60 km/h. It was later used in Belgrade cemeteries, but its speed and range were reduced.

At the end of the 20th century, the development of electric vehicles with alternating (asynchronous) motors began. Under the leadership of engineer Bojan Kragić, the Raskovnik Company developed several light electric vehicles with asynchronous motors up to four kilowatts. These vehicles represented a serious step toward potential serial production, based entirely on domestic expertise and multidisciplinary development.

IN FOCUS:

Independent of Raskovnik, in cooperation with the factories Crvena Zastava from Kragujevac, the Faculty of Electrical Engineering in Belgrade, Sever from Subotica, and Krušik from Valjevo, a Yugo-Elektra vehicle was reconstructed under the leadership of Professor Slobodan Vukosavić. It featured a 7.5 kW asynchronous electric motor. Despite NATO bombing, development was not halted. The vehicle was officially unveiled in 2002.

By the beginning of the 21st century, the development of electric vehicles in Serbia had progressed gradually, with many attempts and innovations. However, the only program that achieved a broader commercial application was the series known as the Black Ladas.

Since 2004, the development of electric vehicles has nearly come to a halt. I remember that Professor Stojiljković, Professor Vukosavić, and I, then a doctoral student at the Mihajlo Pupin Institute and the Department of Power Converters and Drives at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, developed Project 006214: Development of Software and Electronic Control Units for Traction Drives and Battery Converters in Eco Vehicles. The project was conceived as a continuation of the development of the electric Yugo, in collaboration with Zastava Automobili d.o.o. Unfortunately, even though Zastava was on its last legs at the time, the project did not receive support in the call for proposals issued by the then Ministry of Science and Environmental Protection. Nevertheless, the ideas endured and could still find a path to implementation and application today.

Electric Bicycles – Success Stories

Electric bicycles, it could be said, have almost no downsides. They do not harm the environment, maintenance is inexpensive, and they help avoid city traffic, long waits, and congestion.

One of the most notable models is the Archont, an electric bicycle by the local company Ono Bikes (run by brothers Marko and Saša Šćepanović). In 2016, the BBC named it the most beautiful electric bicycle in the world. The company’s website, onobikes. com, features six different Archont models with electric motors tailored to various user needs. Particularly noteworthy is the Archont E60 model, equipped with a six-kilowatt motor, offering excellent acceleration and a top speed of 75 km/h. It uses a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 1.44 kWh, providing a range of more than 120 km per charge.

The E-Prime team, led by Milan Manojlović, showcased electric bicycles and rickshaws at the 2019 International Energy Fair in Belgrade, which visitors were able to test. Their best-selling models are the Effecto and Effecta. The Cargo model is designed for light parcel delivery, and the Experience model stands out for its unique design.

Students from the Faculty of Electrical Engineering in Belgrade developed a prototype electric bicycle, which they presented at the final energy electronics competition in Madison (USA) in July 2019. Their system – composed of a battery, power converter, electric motor, and mobile app – won the Grand Prize. It demonstrated an efficiency of 97.8 percent, an output power of 750 W at 400 V, and featured an innovative clutch. The team included students from various departments of the Faculty, mentored by Prof. Slobodan N. Vukosavić, PhD, and assistant Aleksandar Milić.

Željko Despotović, PhD, electrical engineer

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY 

North Macedonia Advocates for Accelerated Electricity Market Integration at EU Forum

Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay (analogicus)

The Ministry of Energy, Mining and Mineral Resources of North Macedonia and the National Electricity Market Operator (MEMO) participated in the second edition of the Electricity Market Integration Forum, held at the European Parliament in Brussels. The forum’s theme focused on implicit cross-border market coupling beyond the EU, bringing together over 100 representatives from regulatory bodies, power exchanges, and institutions across the EU and the Western Balkans.

During a panel discussion on expanding the European energy market by 2026, Minister Sanja Božinovska emphasized that integrating North Macedonia’s electricity market into the EU Internal Electricity Market is a strategic priority. She highlighted that the Ministry fully supports MEMO’s activities, viewing them as crucial for improving market liquidity, price competitiveness, and supply security.

Božinovska also pointed out the potential economic benefits of shielding from the financial impacts of the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), noting that timely integration could ease operations for North Macedonian businesses.

Recalling that the market coupling process began back in 2017–2018, the Minister stated that it is now in a delicate phase of transposing EU legislation and implementing the Market Coupling Operations Implementation Plan (MCO IP), under the supervision of ACER, the EU Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators.

More:

“Due to uncertainty around the impact of CBAM, it was imperative to achieve market coupling before 2026. Although we are now beyond that timeframe, it is realistic to aim for integration between Q4 2026 and Q1 2027”, she said, calling for intensified cooperation with the EU.

In the context of new energy policies, the Minister emphasized that the Parliament recently adopted a new Energy Law, fully aligned with EU regulations. This law lays the foundation for a modernized, clean, and just energy system, with greater inclusion of renewable energy sources and more active citizen participation.

“The creation of a dedicated Ministry of Energy and the adoption of this law demonstrate our commitment to reform. We are opening the market, reducing losses, and enabling greater participation of consumers and producers”, concluded Božinovska.

In her closing remarks, Minister Božinovska called on European partners: “The benefits are mutual – from energy security to economic growth. Only through enhanced cooperation can we build a stable, integrated European electricity system that benefits all.”

The Forum in Brussels marks another step toward faster integration of the Energy Community countries into the EU Internal Electricity Market, with the support of European institutions and partners.

Energy portal

Extinction in the Shadows: The Truth About the Species No One Counts

Photo-illustration: Pixabay

Some facts pass us by like a summer breeze, while others strike directly at our conscience. Such was the case with a study I recently read — an analysis by scientists at Oregon State University examining the impact of climate change on the animal kingdom. And no matter how aware I thought I was of the problem, this study shook me to the core.

Ecology professor William Ripple and his team used publicly available biodiversity data covering 70,814 species across 35 known classes. Their analysis led to the conclusion that more than 3,500 animal species are currently at serious risk due to climate change. And these are not just the iconic large animals we see in documentaries — they include the often overlooked heroes of our ecosystems: invertebrates, corals, centipedes, and tiny ocean creatures without which entire systems begin to collapse.

“We are particularly concerned about ocean invertebrates, which absorb most of the heat from climate change. These animals are increasingly vulnerable due to their limited ability to move and quickly escape unfavorable conditions,” Ripple stated.

One of the most striking examples comes from the Israeli coast, where in 2021 a dramatic 90 percent decline in mollusk populations was recorded, caused by rising sea temperatures. This was not an isolated event.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Francesco Ungaro)

During the devastating heat dome that struck the Pacific Northwest that same year, billions of intertidal invertebrates perished within a short time. These events highlight how vulnerable marine organisms — especially those unable to move or adapt quickly — are to the intensifying effects of climate change.Their extinction represents not only a biological loss but a serious threat to the stability of entire marine ecosystems.

Equally tragic, the Great Barrier Reef suffered a catastrophic loss of 29 percent of its coral organisms in 2016, again due to an extreme heatwave. In the same period, four million thin-billed murres (a species of seabird) died of starvation. The cause? Climate change disrupted the food web — plankton, fish, the entire system fell out of balance.

The same applies to the Pacific cod, whose population plummeted by an astonishing 71 percent due to increased metabolic demands and a reduced food base. As I read these alarming facts, I couldn’t help but wonder — how many more species will we lose in the coming years without even knowing it?

Because the truth is even worse: more than two-thirds of all animal classes have not yet been assessed for climate-related extinction risk. The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature), whose Red List is often the foundation for conservation efforts, exhibits a serious bias — it focuses mainly on vertebrates, which make up less than six percent of all named species.

This means that millions of species — particularly invertebrates — simply don’t exist in the data. That’s why Professor Ripple is calling for the urgent creation of a global database on mass animal mortality caused by climate change. And I completely understand him. We cannot protect what we do not know. We cannot make political decisions without data. And we cannot remain blind while ecosystems around us are collapsing.

Climate justice is not just a fight for clean air or lower temperatures. It is a fight for every living being that shares this home with us. If not for their sake, then for ours — because if they disappear, the question becomes: how long will we last?

Milena Maglovski

Brestovac Paves the Way for Energy Transition Through Solar Energy

Foto: MT-KOMEX

The south of Serbia is known for its mountainous landscapes, specialties, and hospitality – traits recognized far beyond the region. While the residents of this area carefully preserve what makes it special, they simultaneously open the door to new opportunities that benefit both the present and the future. One such opportunity is using clean energy, which is increasingly finding its place in this part of the country.

Brestovac, a settlement within the city of Leskovac, has recognized the importance of renewable energy sources by allocating its land to produce green energy. On an area of 2.5 hectares, the company MT-KOMEX began the construction of the solar power plant – Solar Elektro at the end of February this year. The investor of this project, Solar Elektro d.o.o. Kragujevac entrusted the construction to MT-KOMEX, a company recognized for its extensive experience and reliability as a partner. With over 250 ground and rooftop solar power projects implemented, this company has installed over 350,000 solar panels.

For the realization of this project, the company’s expert team will install 2,600 solar panels, each with a capacity of 640 Wp, manufactured by Aiko. The total installed capacity of the solar power plant will be 1,664 MWp, while the active power will be 1,500 kW. The quality of a solar power plant is reflected in careful planning and precise execution. To maximize electricity production during the summer months, the solar panels will be vertically oriented and mounted on a supporting substructure at a tilt angle of 20°, facing south. The southern and southwestern parts of Serbia are among the sunniest regions in the country, making them ideal for developing solar power plants and enhancing long-term energy stability.

IN FOCUS:

The project envisages a total of 15 inverters with an individual power of 100 kW, manufactured by Huawei (model – SUN2000-100KTL-M2). The inverter automatically synchronizes with the grid at a voltage of 0.4 kV. Once operational, the solar power plant will deliver all the electricity it generates to the power distribution system. Annual production is expected to reach approximately 2,335.4 MWh, representing a significant contribution to increasing the share of solar energy in the overall power grid.

To ensure the highest level of safety for the solar power plant, a lightning protection system with an early steamer emission device is planned to protect the facility from atmospheric discharges. Sensors will be installed within the power plant to monitor local meteorological data relevant to the plant’s operation.

These sensors will measure four key parameters: solar radiation intensity, wind speed, ambient temperature, and the temperature of the solar panels.

In addition to producing clean energy, this project will also contribute to reducing carbon dioxide emissions. On an annual basis, the power plant is expected to lower CO2 emissions by 2,246 kilograms, further supporting environmental protection and improving air quality in the region.

This solar project lays the foundation for an energy-independent and environmentally responsible community in Brestovac, contributing to a sustainable future for Serbia as a whole.

Prepared by: Katarina Vuinac

Read the story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY 

EBRD – Driving Serbia’s Green Transition and Sustainable Development

Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (dusan-pokusevski)

As Serbia accelerates its journey towards a more sustainable and competitive economy, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) remains one of its key investors and partners. With annual investments exceeding 800 million euros, the EBRD actively supports projects that contribute to the energy transition, infrastructure modernization, and strengthening the private sector.

We spoke with Jelena Čeperković, Deputy Head of the EBRD for Serbia, about how the EBRD’s strategy is reflected in concrete projects across the country – from the rehabilitation of hydropower plants and wind farms, to modernizing rail and air transport, as well as investments in environmental infrastructure and energy efficiency. 

Q: How much did the EBRD invest in Serbia in 2024, and how much additional funding was mobilized from other sources?

Foto: Ljubaznošću Jelene Čeperković

A: The EBRD is the leading institutional investor in Serbia, with an active portfolio currently exceeding three billion euros. In 2024, for the second year in a row, we invested more than 800 million euros and mobilized an additional 395 million euros from other investors. We work closely with the European Union and other donors, and we also mobilize our own resources to complement the projects we finance with grants where most appropriate.

Q: How many projects did the EBRD support in Serbia last year, and which sector received the highest investment?

A: Last year, we supported a record 37 projects in Serbia, with total investments amounting to 807 million euros. These investments spanned various economic sectors, with a strategic focus on the transition to a green economy, strengthening the capacity of the private sector, and financing sustainable infrastructure.

Most of last year’s investments – nearly 500 million euros – were directed towards the green transition, primarily through renewable energy projects, decarbonizing district heating systems, and improvements to environmental infrastructure. We also supported several key infrastructure projects in the railway and aviation sectors and the rollout of high-speed broadband internet in rural areas.

Additionally, we continued efforts to boost the competitiveness of the private sector through both direct investments and advisory support aimed at improving access to finance and business practices for SMEs. Most of the real economy financing was achieved in collaboration with local banks, through which we provide targeted credit lines for SMEs.

IN FOCUS:

Q: What are the key projects funded in the area of green transition and renewable energy?

A: Since 2020, the EBRD has invested nearly one billion euros in 23 energy sector projects across the Western Balkans. Although a significant part of this investment includes liquidity credit lines granted during the 2023 energy crisis, our primary priority remains expanding the capacity of renewable energy sources.

In Serbia, we are currently financing projects in both the public sector, through EPS and EDS, and with private investors. We recently secured a 67-million-euro loan and an investment grant of over 15 million euros from the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) to fund the rehabilitation of the Vlasina hydropower plants, among the oldest in the EPS system, which will result in modernization and increased capacity. In addition, we are financing the Pupin wind farm, the first project built under the initial round of auctions for solar and wind power held in 2023.

Alongside direct financing, we place great emphasis on maintaining ongoing dialogue with the government on energy sector reform, further decarbonization, and greater sustainability. One example is the technical assistance provided to the relevant ministry in designing and implementing a three-year plan for auctioning 1,300 MW of wind and solar capacity, realized in partnership with the Swiss government, and delivering excellent results. We also offer EPS a comprehensive advisory support package in key areas such as decarbonization, corporate governance, and human capital development.

Q: How has the EBRD supported modernizing Serbia’s railway and air transport systems?

A: Railway sector modernization is one of the EBRD’s priorities in Serbia, as evidenced by over one billion euros in investment to date. The most significant project in this area is the reconstruction of the high-speed railway from Belgrade to Niš, financed jointly with our partners from the EIB and the EU. This project aims to ensure fast, reliable, and safe transport of passengers and goods along this corridor while also supporting the country’s overall economic development and local and regional conne ctivity. In recent years, we have also financed the procurement of new rolling stock for Srbija Voz and Srbija Kargo, which, along with infrastructure improvements, should enhance the competitiveness of rail as one of the greenest modes of transport. Additionally, through advisory support linked to these projects, we are working to improve corporate governance and commercialization and to modernize curricula in secondary and higher railway schools, including the implementation of dual education to attract suitable future talent for the railway sector.

As for air transport, last year we continued our successful cooperation and provided new funding to the Serbia and Montenegro Air Traffic Services Agency (SMATSA) to facilitate the transition to the latest version of the air traffic management system, thereby improving safety, efficiency, and service quality.

Interview by Katarina Vuinac

The inteview was published in the Energy portal Magazine SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY 

World Bee Day Calls for Urgent Action – Human Survival Depends on Bees

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Meggyn Pomerleau)

Today, World Bee Day is being marked across the globe – a day aimed at raising awareness about the vital role bees play in preserving biodiversity, sustaining ecosystems, and ensuring global food security. At the same time, this day reminds us of the growing threats bees face – from habitat loss and pollution to climate change and harmful agricultural practices – all of which directly endanger their survival and, consequently, the future of our planet.

At the initiative of the Slovenian Beekeepers’ Association, the United Nations declared May 20th as World Bee Day in 2017. Boštjan Noč, President of the European Beekeeping Association and President of the Slovenian Beekeepers’ Association, warned that beekeepers are losing the motivation to continue, and if they start leaving the practice, we are facing a disaster in the near future.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Ergita Sela)

“Quite simply, there will be fewer bees each year, and as a result, the free pollination services they provide will disappear – this will seriously impact food production… So, Europe – it’s now or never! This concerns bees, beekeepers, and consumers,” said Noč, as reported by the Association of Beekeeping Organizations of Serbia.

He identified several key measures to protect beekeepers and bees, including the urgent removal of fake honey from the European market, as well as direct payments to beekeepers through agricultural and environmental programs to support the free pollination services provided by bees.

Causes of Bee Population Decline

More than 75 percent of the world’s food crops depend, to some extent, on pollinators – including bees, butterflies, birds, bats, and other insects.

Without pollinators, many nutritionally rich crops – such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds – could be replaced by less nutritious crops like rice, potatoes, and corn. This would directly jeopardize the nutritional balance of human diets, especially in poor and rural communities.

According to data from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and other relevant organizations, current extinction rates of pollinator species are 100 to 1,000 times higher than natural rates, mainly due to human activities. Estimates indicate that about 35 percent of invertebrate pollinators, including bees and butterflies, and 17 percent of vertebrate pollinators, such as bats and birds, are at risk of extinction.

The main threats to pollinator survival include habitat loss, intensive agriculture, excessive use of pesticides, herbicides and fungicides, pollution, and climate change.

Bees are not just honey producers – they are indicators of environmental health. Their presence, behavior, and well-being reflect the state of ecosystems – including air, water, and soil quality. Therefore, their disappearance should not be viewed as an isolated biological event, but as a sign of broader ecological imbalance.

More:

How Can We Help Protect Bees?

Everyone can contribute to bee protection – whether as an individual, beekeeper, farmer, policymaker, or member of the community:

Citizens can:

  • Plant native flowers that bloom at different times of the year,
  • Buy local, raw honey,
  • Avoid using pesticides in gardens,
  • Set up water fountains for bees,
  • Raise awareness and educate others about the importance of bees.

Beekeepers and farmers can

  • Reduce and control the use of chemicals,
  • Diversify crops and plant pollinator-friendly species,
  • Install hedgerows and shelters for wild bees.

World Bee Day is not just an opportunity to celebrate these extraordinary insects but also to acknowledge their crucial role in the future of our food and planetary health. In an era of climate change and growing food supply uncertainty, bees are our quietest – but most important – allies.

Energy portal

Study in South Asia: How Seemingly Simple Changes in Brick Kilns Delivered Major Results

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (steve-johnson)

Bangladesh is among the most polluted countries in the world. A significant portion of this pollution stems from its industrial sector—especially textile, leather, and construction industries—as well as the wastewater they generate and the dense, unregulated traffic. The traditional brick-making industry has for decades been a vital part of the South Asian economy, particularly in Bangladesh.

This very industry, which provides livelihoods for a large number of people, is one of the largest contributors to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide (CO₂) and fine particulate matter (PM 2.5). Brick production, which largely relies on coal combustion, has particularly harmful health effects in countries with weak regulatory systems and limited technical capacities.

Against this backdrop, researchers from the Boston University School of Public Health, in collaboration with partners from Stanford University, icddr,b in Bangladesh, Greentech Knowledge Solutions, and the University of Dhaka, conducted one of the most comprehensive studies to date to examine whether and how the brick industry can become more efficient and cleaner without relying on enforcement or legal regulations.

More:

The study involved 276 brick kilns across Bangladesh between 2022 and 2023. The intervention included providing education, technical assistance, and practical advice to kiln owners on implementing simple operational changes, such as improved brick stacking methods, switching to biomass as fuel, and reducing heat loss in the kilns.

The results were encouraging: 65 percent of kiln owners adopted the recommended changes, which led to a 23 percent reduction in energy use, around a 20 percent decrease in CO₂ and PM 2.5 emissions, as well as improved brick quality and savings on coal consumption. One year later, researchers found that the improved practices were still in place—and had even expanded further due to their effectiveness.

Despite existing laws in Bangladesh that prohibit, for example, the use of firewood or require that brick kilns not be located near schools and hospitals, most kilns are still situated near schools, and working conditions are often extremely harsh. This industry produces 27 billion bricks annually and is responsible for as much as 17 percent of national CO₂ emissions and 11 percent of PM 2.5 emissions in Bangladesh.

The study by the Boston University School of Public Health, conducted in partnership with international collaborators, demonstrates that sustainability does not have to come from complex technologies and strict regulations, but rather from simple, profitable, and locally adapted solutions.

Energy portal

 
 

Record-Breaking Barrier Removal in Europe 2024 – 2,900 km of Rivers Restored to Natural Flow

Photo-illustration: Freepik (wirestock)

Dam Removal Europe, an initiative and network dedicated to removing old or non-functional dams across Europe, announced that a new record was achieved in 2024 with 542 river barriers removed. As highlighted, this reflects growing support and understanding among communities and governments.

Removals took place in 23 countries, with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, the Czech Republic, and Turkey removing their first river barriers. Among the top-performing countries, Finland stands out with at least 138 removals, followed by France, Spain, and Sweden.

More than 2,900 kilometers of rivers were reconnected. In Italy, five barriers were removed along an 11-kilometer river stretch, restoring its natural flow for the first time in decades. In Croatia, 16 kilometers of rivers were reconnected, which also strengthened climate resilience, water and food security, and halted biodiversity loss, according to WWF Adria.

More:

There are over 1.2 million obstacles in European rivers — such as dams, barriers, and culverts — that interrupt their natural flow. Many of these structures are outdated and have a negative impact on the free movement of water, sediments, nutrients, and aquatic species. This fragmentation weakens the resilience of river ecosystems and reduces their natural functions, significantly contributing to biodiversity loss. A particularly alarming trend is the drastic decline in migratory freshwater fish populations, which have decreased by about 75 percent since 1970 in Europe.

In addition to the record-setting barrier removal, the past year was also marked by the implementation of the EU Nature Restoration Law, which sets a goal of restoring at least 25,000 kilometers of rivers to free-flowing conditions. Barrier removal plays a key role in the global Freshwater Challenge, which aims to restore 300,000 kilometers of degraded rivers by 2030.

Energy portal

1...456...408Page 5 of 408

Newsletter

Please enter a valid email address

Calendar of events

2025 June

MO
TU
WE
TH
FR
SA
SU
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
Events for 30 June
No Events
Events for 1 July
No Events
Events for 2 July
No Events
Events for 3 July
No Events
Events for 4 July
No Events
Events for 5 July
No Events
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
Events for 6 July
No Events
Events for 7 July
No Events
Events for 8 July
No Events
Events for 9 July
No Events
Events for 10 July
No Events
Events for 11 July
No Events
Events for 12 July
No Events
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
Events for 13 July
No Events
Events for 14 July
No Events
Events for 15 July
No Events
Events for 16 July
No Events
Events for 17 July
No Events
Events for 18 July
No Events
Events for 19 July
No Events
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
Events for 20 July
No Events
Events for 21 July
No Events
Events for 22 July
No Events
Events for 23 July
No Events
Events for 24 July
No Events
Events for 25 July
No Events
Events for 26 July
No Events
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
Events for 27 July
No Events
Events for 28 July
No Events
Events for 29 July
No Events
Events for 30 July
No Events

WRITE US

Office: Bulevar oslobođenja 103/3, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
Monday–Friday: 09–17h
Phone/Fax: +381 (11) 396 23 59 info@energetskiportal.rs marketing@energetskiportal.rs

©2024 www.energetskiportal.com