Serbia is set to construct a 3 MW solar plant on a former landfill in Pirot, marking a significant step towards renewable energy and environmental reclamation. The project, funded by the European Union, will be managed by regional utility Elektroprivreda Srbije (EPS) and is designed to serve around 600 households.
Repurposing a Former Landfill for the Pirot solar plant
The city of Pirot, located in southeastern Serbia, is poised to transform a former landfill site into a solar power plant capable of generating 3 MW of electricity. This innovative project will be managed by the regional utility Elektroprivreda Srbije (EPS) and is backed by significant funding from the European Union. Once operational, the new solar plant is expected to generate clean electricity for approximately 600 households.
The total investment is valued at EUR 2.4 million, with the European Union contributing around EUR 1.7 million of the cost. The site itself was an active landfill until 2014, after which it was closed and rehabilitated under the EU-funded project “Serbia: Solid Waste Programme Pirot.” This new initiative aligns perfectly with the goals of the European Union’s Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans. This approach of repurposing degraded land is becoming a hallmark of Serbia’s green transition; for instance, the country also launched the impressive 10 MW Petka plant on a reclaimed coal mining site.
The solar plant will be established on the rehabilitated landfill, which has already been covered with a layer of earth and seeded with grass. EPS has issued a tender for the installation of 3 MW of solar panels and a 1 MWh battery storage system to ensure a stable power supply. The complexity of the solar panel manufacturing process and the specific raw materials required will be key considerations for bidders. The deadline for bids is set for July 31, 2024, with the project expected to be completed within 18 months.
Progress in Solar Energy Development including Pirot solar plant
Construction of the solar power plant in Pirot is anticipated to begin by the end of this year. This project is a crucial part of a much broader national effort to rapidly increase Serbia’s solar energy capacity. The country has made remarkable strides, growing its installed capacity to 137 MW by the end of 2023. According to the Ministry of Mining and Energy, the Serbia solar capacity 2024 outlook includes plans to add another 80 MW, effectively doubling its capacity in a short period.
This growth is driven by several key developments. The country’s first large-scale solar power plant, the 9.9 MW DeLasol project in Lapovo, was connected to the grid in late 2023. Furthermore, major international players are entering the market; for example, Hive Energy connects solar projects with the grid in Serbia, adding over 215 MW to the pipeline. Looking ahead, an ambitious 1 GW partnership with Hyundai signals Serbia’s long-term commitment. The national strategy also includes decentralized generation through the Serbia solar energy initiative, which aims to install panels on 300,000 residential roofs.
The Role of European Funding for the Pirot solar plant
The European Union has played a crucial role in funding the Pirot solar project through its Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans. This plan is specifically designed to support the region’s transition to renewable energy and foster sustainable development. The funding for the solar plant is part of a broader strategy to promote economic growth, enhance energy security, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels across the Western Balkans.
The Pirot project is one of several initiatives in Serbia funded by the European Union to enhance its renewable energy infrastructure. The EU’s support reflects a strong commitment to helping the Western Balkans meet their renewable energy targets, align with European climate goals, and accelerate their green transition.
The Pirot solar plant is a significant milestone in Serbia’s renewable energy journey. By transforming a former landfill into a source of clean energy, the project powerfully demonstrates the potential for innovative solutions to environmental challenges. The plant’s construction will not only increase Serbia’s solar capacity but also contribute to the country’s efforts to build a more sustainable energy system.
As Serbia continues to invest heavily in renewable energy, projects like the Pirot solar plant will play a crucial role in shaping the country’s energy future. With robust European Union support and a clear focus on sustainability, Serbia is taking important steps towards a cleaner, more resilient, and self-sufficient energy system.
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