Serbia is taking steps toward developing its first nuclear power facility, with government officials saying the country could begin construction of a nuclear power plant within the next decade.
Energy Minister Dubravka Đedović Handanović said Serbia’s immediate priority is completing the first stage of its nuclear energy program by 2027. The country is expected to use that period to collect technical data, evaluate options and determine the best path for developing nuclear energy.
Speaking at a workshop dedicated to Serbia’s nuclear energy strategy, Đedović Handanović said the government wants to create the necessary legal, regulatory and professional framework before selecting a technology and moving into the construction phase.
She said Serbia’s goal is to be fully prepared by 2032 and start building a nuclear facility by 2035.
The minister emphasized that Serbia’s nuclear plans are being developed carefully and in line with international safety standards established by the International Atomic Energy Agency.
As part of its preparations, Serbia has already worked with French energy company EDF on an initial study examining the potential role of nuclear power in the country’s energy future. Additional studies are expected as the program moves forward.
Nuclear energy is included in Serbia’s long term “Serbia 2035” development strategy, which estimates that around 3 billion euros could be invested in the sector.
Đedović Handanović said countries that have developed nuclear industries have also created opportunities in areas such as education, technology, local manufacturing and workforce development.
She highlighted the United Arab Emirates as an example of how building a nuclear program can create opportunities for domestic experts and the wider economy.
The minister also noted that interest in nuclear energy is growing worldwide as countries search for reliable sources of electricity to meet increasing demand.
To support Serbia’s future nuclear ambitions, the Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences and the Faculty of Technical Sciences in Novi Sad are preparing a master’s program aimed at educating the next generation of nuclear engineers.
