Serbia has entered a new phase in its energy strategy by repealing the longstanding ban on nuclear power plants, signaling a willingness to include nuclear energy in its future energy mix. This decision paves the way for both domestic and international cooperation to evaluate the feasibility of a national nuclear program.
Minister of Mining and Energy Dubravka Đedovic confirmed that Serbia submitted a request to the French Development Agency earlier this year for grant funding to support additional studies in the first stage of its nuclear roadmap. The funding would cover technical and preparatory analyses required before any investment decisions. She also noted that formal cooperation with the French utility EDF is expected to expand in March, and that a national body tasked with implementing the nuclear program is nearly established, with formal creation anticipated by month-end.
According to Minister Đedovic, Serbia is still in the initial stage of structuring its nuclear ambitions, as long-term energy planning becomes increasingly critical. The Government aims to secure system stability for decades, consistent with the Energy Development Strategy through 2040, with projections extending to 2050. Universities, domestic experts, and foreign partners will play a key role in shaping next steps. EDF representatives highlighted that a preliminary study conducted with Serbian experts identified 19 essential measures aligned with IAEA standards, forming the backbone of Serbia’s early nuclear framework. Serbia and EDF signed a memorandum of understanding in 2024 to establish long-term collaboration on the energy transition and low-carbon technologies.
Separately, Director of state-owned utility EPS, Dušan Živković, reiterated that the company will remain central to national energy security during the transition. He noted that roughly 4 GW of fossil-based capacity will eventually need replacement and confirmed that EPS intends to actively explore the peaceful use of nuclear energy. EDF’s extensive nuclear expertise is considered particularly valuable for Serbia’s future planning.
