Serbia is preparing to advance the long-planned Bistrica pump-storage hydropower project, with initial preparatory activities expected to begin later this year. Full construction will depend on the issuance of a building permit, which authorities anticipate obtaining in 2027, according to Energy and Mining Minister Dubravka Đedovic.
The next phase of the project hinges on finalizing financial arrangements and agreeing on implementation timelines with international partners. These issues were discussed during recent talks with representatives of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). Securing clarity on funding and execution schedules is seen as essential to move from planning to construction without delays.
HPP Bistrica is considered one of the most significant infrastructure projects for Serbia’s long-term energy security. Its importance extends beyond conventional electricity generation, as it is designed to provide large-scale energy storage and system flexibility. By operating as a pump-storage facility, Bistrica is expected to play a central role in balancing variable renewable generation, supporting the integration of new solar and wind power plants already under development or planned.
In this capacity, the hydropower plant is viewed as a critical component of Serbia’s decarbonization strategy. By enabling greater use of renewable energy while maintaining network stability, HPP Bistrica is positioned as a cornerstone project in Serbia’s transition toward a cleaner and more resilient energy mix.