EU allocates EUR 240 million to Serbia for environmental and energy efficiency initiatives
The European Union has approved a significant EUR 240 million donation to Serbia as part of a financing agreement aimed at improving the country’s environment and energy efficiency. This funding, drawn from the EU’s pre-accession funds, will support projects worth a total of EUR 325.2 million and is scheduled to run through 2032.
The agreement was signed as part of Serbia’s Multiannual Operational Programme on Environment and Energy, with the EU providing EUR 240 million in non-repayable assistance. Serbia will contribute the remaining funds. The projects include waste and wastewater management, energy efficiency improvements, and the transition to renewable energy sources.
The financial support will be managed by state institutions under an indirect management system, similar to how EU member states handle cohesion and regional development programs. The Ministry of European Integration has emphasized that this assistance is another key element in Serbia’s ongoing EU accession process.
Focus Areas: Green Energy and Waste Management
Mira Radenović Bojić, Serbia’s National IPA Coordinator, highlighted that this funding will address several crucial areas, including sustainable waste management, wastewater treatment infrastructure, and energy efficiency measures in both public buildings and households. The funding will also support the development of capacities for the country’s transition to renewable energy.
The program will also focus on improving public waterworks and sewerage systems. In addition to infrastructure improvements, the program will assist Serbia in aligning with EU standards by developing strategic plans and documents, as well as fostering cooperation with national and international stakeholders, including civil society organizations and the private sector.
The program will further include measures to improve air quality by reducing harmful emissions, which is expected to have a positive impact on public health.
EU’s Commitment to Serbia’s Green Transition
Andreas von Beckerath, the EU Ambassador to Serbia, reiterated the EU’s strong commitment to supporting Serbia on its path toward EU membership. He emphasized that environmental protection and sustainable energy are central to both the European Green Deal and improving citizens’ quality of life.
“This significant investment aims to accelerate Serbia’s alignment with EU standards and deliver tangible benefits for both citizens and the environment,” said von Beckerath. “Our joint future depends on this green and just transition, and we are delighted that we will walk down this path together.”
Funding Breakdown
The program, which covers the 2024-2027 programming period, will be implemented from 2025 to 2032. It includes EUR 141.9 million for waste and wastewater management and waterworks, EUR 140 million for air quality and energy efficiency, and EUR 43.3 million for technical support.
For 2024, EUR 44.9 million is allocated, with subsequent years receiving EUR 108 million, EUR 76.8 million, and EUR 95.5 million.
This financial support is a clear indication of the EU’s ongoing commitment to helping Serbia address its environmental challenges and transition to a greener, more sustainable future.
