The Ministry of Mining and Energy has announced that Serbia is on track to meet the requirements for joining the European Union’s energy market by this summer. This integration, similar to the Schengen zone for travelers, will allow for the free trade of electricity and gas without administrative barriers, aiming to provide a more stable energy supply and lower prices for both citizens and businesses.
Joining the EU energy market will offer Serbia a broader selection of electricity and gas providers, fostering increased competition that could lead to reduced costs. Additionally, this move is expected to attract investments in renewable energy, helping reduce the country’s current heavy reliance on coal, which makes up over 60% of domestic energy production.
The Ministry confirmed that Serbia plans to become part of the European energy market by the end of 2027. Specifically, Serbia aims to integrate the day-ahead electricity market (SDAC) by the end of 2026 and the intraday market (SIDC) by the end of 2027.
The EU energy market promotes efficient electricity and gas trade by harmonizing rules and regulations, improving system efficiency, supply security, and competition. It also supports the use of renewable energy by enabling the transfer of surplus energy between countries. The 2021-2022 energy crisis highlighted the importance of a connected energy market in minimizing price disparities and allowing mutual support.
State energy companies like EPS will continue their roles as producers and suppliers within Serbia’s already liberalized market.
Serbia has already initiated several infrastructure projects to strengthen its transmission network. Completed projects include sections of the Trans-Balkan Corridor Phase I (Pančevo-Rešica in 2017 and Kraljevo 3-Kragujevac 2 in 2022). Upcoming plans involve completing additional sections of the Trans-Balkan Corridor, developing the Northern CSE Corridor (BeoGrid2025 and 400 kV Serbia-Romania line), the Pannonian Corridor (2×400 kV Serbia-Hungary), and the Central Balkan Corridor (interconnections with Bulgaria and internal 400 kV lines). Alongside infrastructure upgrades, establishing a regulatory framework and securing agreements with neighboring operators are essential steps toward full integration.
