Hive Energy Connects Four Solar Projects With the Grid in Serbia

UK-based developer Hive Energy has achieved a major milestone in Serbia’s burgeoning renewable energy market, securing grid connection permits for four significant solar power projects. The portfolio, amounting to a total alternating current (AC) capacity of 216.5 MW, represents a substantial boost to the nation’s clean energy goals. The company announced the successful acquisition of the permits in late May 2024, with final connection contracts with the Transmission System Operator (TSO) expected to be signed shortly thereafter, pending the submission of necessary bank guarantees.

The four projects are strategically located and include the 50 MW Pirot and 40 MW Prokuplje plants, alongside the Veliko Gradište I (71.5 MW) and Veliko Gradište II (55 MW) developments. A forward-thinking aspect of this initiative is the inclusion of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) for each facility. These storage systems will be sized at 10% of the respective solar capacity, designed to enhance grid stability and ensure a more reliable power supply.

This achievement follows a structured regulatory process. Hive Energy submitted grid applications for these photovoltaic projects in December 2023, under new Serbian regulations that facilitate biannual grid connection requests. The required grid studies were successfully completed by April 2024. Looking ahead, the Pirot and Prokuplje projects are anticipated to receive urban planning approval by the summer of 2024. The two Veliko Gradište Solar PV sites are projected to reach ready-to-build status between the fourth quarter of 2024 and the first quarter of 2025, with commercial operations targeted for 2025-2026.

The successful permitting of this 216.5 MW portfolio is part of Hive Energy’s broader strategy in the region. The company is already preparing to apply for grid connections for an additional seven photovoltaic projects, which would add a further 500 MW to its development pipeline in Serbia, signaling strong confidence in the country’s renewable energy future.

Sources for Hive Energy Connects Four Solar Projects With the Grid in Serbia

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7. Hive Energy secures grid connection permit for 215.6 MW of solar …
8. Hive Energy secures £19m bank guarantee for solar and BESS