The modernization of Serbia’s hydropower plants continues, following completed works at Bajina Bašta, Zvornik, and Đerdap 1, with reconstruction soon to begin on the Vlasina hydropower plants.
The contract for the reconstruction and modernization of the Vlasina hydropower system was signed by Dušan Živković, General Director of Elektroprivreda Srbije (EPS), and representatives of Energotehnika Južna Bačka. The project, valued at €109.7 million, will increase installed capacity by 8 MW and ensure reliable operation for the next 30 to 40 years.
The works include the overhaul of generating units, auxiliary systems, and hydromechanical equipment. Major turbine and generator suppliers will be global companies Andritz Hydro and Gamesa Electric.
Project financing will be provided through a €67 million loan from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), €15.43 million in EU grants via the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF), and €27.26 million from EPS’s own funds.
Milan Aleksić, advisor to the Minister of Mining and Energy, emphasized that modernizing existing power capacities is essential for ensuring stable electricity supply amid growing demand and the shift toward renewable energy. He added that similar EU-supported modernization projects will follow at the Potpeć and Bistrica hydropower plants.
Commissioned in 1955, the Vlasina system consists of the Vlasina reservoir, four cascading hydropower plants, and the Lisina pump station. With a total capacity of 129 MW, it has produced over 17 million GWh of green electricity since its inception.
