Serbia is exploring the possibility of building gas-fired power plants for electricity production, but this option is seen as a temporary solution due to its carbon emissions, said Željko Marković, Serbia’s Energy Minister. He emphasized that gas power plants would need to be phased out by 2050 in line with the country’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the energy sector.
Marković explained that while gas power plants could play a role in Serbia’s energy mix, they should only be used as a short-term measure, and the focus should be on developing renewable energy sources, nuclear energy, and green hydrogen as part of a more sustainable energy strategy. He added that a comprehensive study should determine the precise role gas-fired plants will play in Serbia’s energy future.
Serbia’s President, Aleksandar Vučić, recently discussed the potential construction of a large gas power plant in the country with Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev, noting that both nations could benefit from such a project. However, Serbia remains committed to the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans, which aims for carbon-neutral energy production by 2050.
Marković highlighted that while gas plants produce significantly less carbon dioxide compared to coal-fired plants, they still contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. He also pointed out the potential risks of reliance on imported gas, including supply disruptions and price volatility, which were evident during the recent energy crisis in Europe.
Despite these challenges, Marković acknowledged that gas power plants could still have a role in Serbia’s energy strategy, particularly when considering their lower construction costs compared to thermal plants. He also mentioned the planned gas power plant in Pančevo, which is set to become operational soon, as a smaller-scale example of Serbia’s gas-based energy plans.
However, Marković stressed that a balanced approach is needed to ensure energy security while keeping long-term environmental goals in mind.
