By the end of this year, the trial operation of the Kostolac wind farm is expected to begin. With its 20 turbines and a total capacity of 66 megawatts (MW), it will significantly contribute to the development of renewable energy sources in Serbia.
In addition, the Petka solar power plant, with a capacity of nearly 10 MW, will also be commissioned, increasing the total capacity of Elektroprivreda Srbije (EPS) by 76 MW. The project is co-financed by KfW Bank and the European Union with €140 million.
The Minister of Mining and Energy, Dubravka Đedović Handanović, stated that the construction of the wind farm is in its final phase.
All turbines have already been installed, with only the completion of works on the substation and connection to the power grid remaining. The first test run of the turbines is planned for the summer, while official trial operation is expected in the autumn. "This project is a sign of Serbia’s serious commitment to the energy transition. Not only are we increasing the share of renewables in overall production, but we are also reducing our reliance on fossil fuels," the minister underlined.
She added that former mining land is being repurposed for clean energy production, which also contributes to environmental protection.
In addition to the wind farm, the Petka solar power plant will soon be connected in Kostolac, further boosting green energy capacity.
"Over the past two years, wind and solar capacity has increased by 85 percent, and the goal is for 45 percent of total electricity production to come from renewable sources by 2030," said Đedović Handanović.
She also announced that preparations for the construction of the Bistrica reversible hydro power plant will begin next year, while in the next three years, plans are in place to connect an additional 1,000 MW from solar power plants and 200 MW of energy storage capacity.
The Director General of EPS, Dušan Živković, highlighted that the wind farm project posed a major technical and logistical challenge, but also served as an opportunity to gain valuable experience. "This area, known for mining, is now taking on a completely new role, becoming a source of clean energy. Our wind farm will generate about 187 million kilowatt-hours annually, enough to power around 30,000 households," said Živković.
He added that he believes Kostolac and the Petka solar plant are just the beginning of developing new green capacities within EPS.
Financial support for this project comes from a €110 million loan from KfW Bank, while the EU, through the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF), is providing an additional €30 million in non-repayable funds. The remaining investment is covered by EPS.
