For decades, Serbia banned the construction of nuclear power plants due to safety concerns following the Chernobyl disaster. The 1989 law, though not prohibiting nuclear research, led to a decline in funding, a loss of professional staff, and the closure of related academic programs.
Recently, the ban was lifted through amendments to the Law on Energy, reopening the door for nuclear development. Public fear of nuclear energy persists, largely due to historical accidents, but modern nuclear plants now follow much stricter safety standards, supported by over 20,000 reactor-years of global experience.
Serbia, though not hosting nuclear plants, is surrounded by countries that do, and thus must maintain readiness for any potential incidents. Globally, nuclear energy is regaining popularity as a low-emission energy source to combat climate change, with 416 reactors in operation and 61 under construction.
Serbia is currently in the early phase of exploring nuclear energy, awaiting results from a preliminary study conducted by French companies EDF and Egis. This study will provide a “road map” including reactor technology options, necessary infrastructure, and integration into Serbia’s energy grid.
The full process—from decision-making to construction and commissioning of a nuclear plant—can take 10–15 years. This timeframe allows Serbia to rebuild its professional workforce. Training would begin with the start of construction, provided by the chosen technology supplier.
Although Serbia currently lacks a large pool of nuclear experts, institutions like “Nuclear Facilities of Serbia” still hold valuable knowledge. The argument that Serbia lacks the necessary personnel is becoming less relevant.
Political and strategic documents increasingly support nuclear energy as a key part of Serbia’s future energy development. Challenges exist, but they are considered solvable.
