The State of Serbia has signed an agreement with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) for a EUR 50 million loan. The funds will be used to modernise centralised heating systems and improve their energy efficiency in various cities across the country.
The aim of the project is to reduce energy consumption and harmful emissions, as well as to cut operating costs for heat supply companies. The authorities emphasise that the improvements will be felt by both institutions and ordinary consumers.
According to Finance Minister Sinisa Mali, the signed agreement confirms Serbia’s sustainable orientation towards the green transition. According to him, the project envisages the reconstruction of thermal substations, replacement of pipelines, installation of automation systems and, in some cases, transition to clean energy sources, such as biomass or solar collectors.
Minister of Mines and Energy Dubravka Djedovic Handanovic added that the implementation of the project will ensure stable and quality heat supply during the winter period, and will also contribute to reducing dependence on imported energy carriers.
The project will be part of a broader programme of energy modernisation of municipal facilities, which the EBRD has previously supported. According to preliminary estimates, the modernisation will reduce energy consumption by 25-30% in the upgraded systems.
The EBRD said it sees Serbia as a key partner in the Balkans and will continue to finance sustainable energy, transport and infrastructure projects.