Serbia has begun cooperation with the French energy company EDF to develop nuclear energy, with recent workshops focused on human resource development and integrating domestic industries into the potential construction of a nuclear power plant. These workshops, as part of a broader partnership, aim to enhance public acceptance of nuclear energy, which is crucial for the success of the project.
In August 2024, EDF signed an agreement with Serbia’s Ministry of Mining and Energy to collaborate on nuclear energy. The agreement includes training professional staff, raising public awareness, and developing a supply chain. This partnership stems from discussions that began in 2023 during a visit by Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić to France.
EDF, a global leader in nuclear energy, is working with French company Aegis to assess nuclear technologies suitable for Serbia. A report on the project’s development, including technology options such as small modular reactors or a large plant, is expected to be presented to the Serbian government in April 2025. The development of a nuclear power plant is anticipated to take 10 to 15 years, involving infrastructure and regulatory framework development.
EDF also plans to collaborate with Serbian universities and technical schools to provide specialized training for technicians and engineers to operate the future nuclear plant. Public support and awareness will be key to the project’s success, with EDF emphasizing the importance of ongoing public education throughout the plant’s operational life.
EDF operates 66 nuclear reactors across Europe and is involved in building new plants in the UK. The company also holds advanced EPR reactor technology, which it believes could be ideal for Serbia’s nuclear program.
