Minister of Mining and Energy Dubravka Đedović Handanović stated that the reversible
hydroelectric power plant (HPP) Bistrica is the most important project Serbia is developing in the energy sector.
She noted that the process of issuing location permits for the plant's main facility is
currently underway.
"I expect that by the end of the year, the project-technical and tender documentation for part of the supporting infrastructure will be ready. At the same time, we are actively working on finalising the financing arrangements with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and meeting their technical and other requirements," said Đedović Handanović during a meeting of the government's Working Group for the construction of HPP Bistrica.
She underlined the need for strong coordination and acceleration from all institutions at both the national and local levels involved in the project's preparation, so that construction can begin early next year.
HPP Bistrica renovation supported by the EU
The Bistrica hydroelectric power plant, operational since 1960, will undergo refurbishment
following Serbia's decision to align its regulations with EU environmental legislation.
This investment project aims to modernise the plant and increase its efficiency, raising annual electricity production to 350 GWh.
In addition to improving energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, this strategic project helps Serbia meet its international obligations, such as the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement.
The modernised hydro plant will support wind and solar power stations, allowing for the integration of more renewable energy sources into Serbia's grid. Ultimately, this project aligns with Serbia's national energy strategy of reaching a 49.6% share of renewable energy by 2040.
Bistrica is the third stage in the hydroenergy utilisation system of the Uvac River. It is the largest hydro plant in the Lim River system, built in 1960.
The facility is located on the right bank of the Lim River. Its installed capacity is 2x51.3 MW, with annual production of about 335 GWh. Having been in operation for over 60 years, the plant is in urgent need of refurbishment.
The renovation involves maintaining the same installed capacity while increasing efficiency by replacing old turbines with new ones and reducing breakdowns by upgrading auxiliary equipment.
Greater efficiency from turbines of the same capacity means better utilisation of water resources. It is estimated that efficiency will increase by 3 to 5%, directly boosting annual electricity output to around 350 GWh while reducing harmful emissions. Furthermore, this project will give the national electricity provider EPS the opportunity to increase the share of renewables in its production portfolio.
Rehabilitation of the Bistrica plant is expected to be completed in 2027.
The EU is co-financing the investment through the Flagship 4 project - Renewable Energy - part of the Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans via the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF), according to the EU Za Tebe website.
