Dubravka Đedović Handanović, Minister of Mining and Energy, stated that the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is interested in financing the project for the construction of the reversible hydroelectric power plant (RHE) “Bistrica,” as well as other energy projects, as announced by the ministry.
“RHE Bistrica” is a crucial energy facility for electricity supply, enabling the connection of new capacities from clean energy and better balancing of variable energy sources. JICA is interested in financing this project, along with numerous Japanese companies that possess knowledge and state-of-the-art technology for such facilities,” said Dubravka Đedović Handanović in a meeting with the Ambassador of Japan in Belgrade, Akira Imamura. She added that this year is important for completing the technical documentation for the hydroelectric power plant, and the feasibility study has been completed, examining all economic parameters and benefits. The estimated cost of building this facility is over one billion euros.
She emphasized that the final works on the construction of the flue gas desulfurization plant in the Thermal Power Plant “Nikola Tesla A” (TENT A) are underway, funded with the financial support of Japanese partners. “The flue gas desulfurization project in TENT A is crucial for improving the quality of life for citizens living in Obrenovac, Belgrade, and the surrounding areas, as the operation of the plant will reduce sulfur dioxide emissions by about 10 times,” the minister pointed out.
According to her, this demonstrates that EPS can play a significant role in the circular economy in the country, considering that gypsum will be produced as a by-product from the plant, which can be used in the construction industry.
She mentioned that the state will invest more in the energy sector than ever before by the start of the international Expo 2027 exhibition. Many projects in the energy sector will be completed, including the gas interconnection with North Macedonia, Serbia-Hungary oil pipeline, the “Kostolac” wind park, and significant investments are planned to strengthen the capacity of the transmission and distribution network.
The completion rate of the desulfurization project at TENT A is 98%, and in the coming months, we expect to start the trial operation of this plant. I am confident that on that occasion, we will have a high-level visit from the Japanese delegation, with whom we will discuss the continuation of cooperation in the energy sector,” she said.
Ambassador Imamura highlighted the quality relations between the two countries over the years and supported Serbia’s new investment plan aimed at fostering economic development, modernization, and transitioning to a green economy, where Japan can make a significant contribution. He expressed satisfaction that there is mutual interest in cooperation in the construction and financing of RHE “Bistrica,” as well as other energy projects, emphasizing that energy storage technology is highly developed in Japan.
