The Path to Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility

24.01.2025

Wikipedia-Planeti-(1) — Photo-illustration: Wikipedia (Planeti)

Novi Pazar, one of the most picturesque cities in the Sandžak region, has become known not only for its rich cultural and historical heritage but also for its pioneering efforts in environmental preservation. With its dynamic energy and youthful spirit, Novi Pazar is increasingly gaining attention as a leader in implementing green initiatives that have a long-term impact on the quality of life for its residents.

What sets the city apart is the diversity of its environmental projects. From launching composting programs and addressing environmental violations to investing in renewable energy sources, Novi Pazar demonstrates how a local community can actively combat climate change and protect the environment.

Nihat Biševac, the Mayor of Novi Pazar, shared details of the city’s achievements, challenges, and ambitious plans for the future. Learn how Novi Pazar has successfully integrated traditional values with modern ecological solutions to position itself as a model for other cities in Serbia and beyond.

Q: The city’s commitment to ecology is evident from the substantial funds allocated to environmental protection in the past year. Tell us more about that.

A: In the past year and a half, Novi Pazar has invested 160 million dinars in environmental protection projects. Our focus has been on initiatives that enhance the quality of life for citizens, increase energy efficiency, reduce emissions of harmful gases, and promote the transition to sustainable energy sources. These projects include modernizing boilers in public institutions, implementing district heating using biomass, and launching subsidy programs for citizens.

Much of the investment has gone towards upgrading boilers in educational and public institutions such as the Pendik Sports Hall, the Gymnasium, the Technical School, the Textile School, and Vuk Karadžić Elementary School. Previously, these institutions used coal, which caused significant air pollution, particularly during the peak heating season in winter. By switching to biomass pellets—a renewable resource—the city has reduced emissions of harmful substances like carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide while improving energy efficiency. These projects align with the city’s long-term strategy to phase out fossil fuels in the public sector, setting a standard for similar-sized towns in Serbia.

IN FOCUS:

Introducing a biomass district heating system for the Cultural Centre, the municipal building, and the Youth Centre is another milestone in reducing fossil fuel consumption in Novi Pazar. Installing heating pipelines and transitioning from coal to biomass decreases pollution in the city center and significantly boosts energy efficiency. Biomass is considered a renewable resource with a much smaller carbon footprint than coal, resulting in a dual benefit—contributing to global pollution reduction goals while creating a sustainable local energy resource.

The city has also launched a program to subsidize building renovations, including improving insulation (façades), replacing old windows, and transitioning from solid-fuel boilers to more environmentally friendly options. These subsidies help households reduce energy consumption during winter, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This initiative, carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Environmental Protection and the Ministry of Mining and Energy, aims to ease household heating maintenance while directly reducing energy consumption and heating costs.

Q: Novi Pazar has recently inaugurated a biomass heating plant to replace an outdated oil-powered facility. The city has also co-financed installing solar power plants in residential homes. What is the share of renewable energy sources in the city’s energy mix, and what are your plans for next year?

Photo-illustrationa: Wikipedia (Jovanvb)

A: In 2022, Novi Pazar launched a biomass and gas heating plant with a capacity of 20.3 MW, significantly reducing harmful emissions. In its first heating season, sulfur dioxide emissions decreased by 47 percent, PM10 particles by 19 percent, PM2.5 particles by 20 percent, and nitrogen dioxide by 9 percent. These figures demonstrate the impact of transitioning to renewable energy sources, an essential step in safeguarding citizens’ health and protecting the environment. We also co-financed solar panel installations on family homes, further encouraging the adoption of renewable energy at the household level. In the coming years, we plan to replace all remaining district heating boilers with biomass and gas systems, achieving complete independence from fossil fuels in our heating network.

Q: Could you tell us about the air quality in Novi Pazar and why it is essential to draft an air quality plan?

A: Air quality during winter is compromised due to Novi Pazar’s geographical location, heavy traffic, and the widespread use of solid-fuel boilers in homes. Developing an air quality plan has become a top priority to address this complex issue. A public consultation on the plan is forthcoming, after which it will be adopted by the city assembly. This strategic framework will guide the implementation of measures to improve air quality. Planned initiatives include optimizing traffic flow, gradually transitioning boilers to renewable energy sources, and expanding pollution monitoring systems. The plan will also enable Novi Pazar to apply for funding from international donors and relevant ministries to secure additional resources for pollution reduction programs.

Interview by Milena Maglovski

Read the whole interview in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

Strategies for Planet Preservation

22.01.2025

Michelle-Raponi-from-Pixabay — Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Michelle-Raponi)

Photo: Courtesy of Kristin Melsom (copyright CorD)

Norway, a country known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and very high standard of living, stands out with its high level of education, strong commitment to environmental protection, and stable economy. Interestingly, despite its relatively small population, Norway is one of the wealthiest societies in the world, thanks to its vast natural resource reserves, such as oil, gas, and forests. The country is a leader in clean energy production as well as in the implementation of renewable sources. However, Norway is not without its challenges in certain sectors. We discussed these topics with Kristin Melsom, the Norwegian Ambassador to Serbia.

Q: Norway ranks high on the Environmental Performance Index (EPI). What strategies contribute to this success, and what are your plans for the upcoming period?

A: Norway ranks 7th among 180 countries in EPI, and we are very proud of this result. Still, we are not equally successful in all sectors. For example, we score high in managing acid rain, air quality, sanitation, and drinking water. Norway also significantly increased the percentage of protected areas, preventing wetland loss and ocean plastic pollution. However, it is fair to say we need to catch up in some areas, such as sustainable pesticide use and a circular economy.

Various factors contribute to these results. Norway has robust environmental policies that adhere to EU legislation as we are part of the same economic area. Nature has been generous to Norway as we generate most of our electricity from hydropower, making us one of Europe’s largest renewable energy producers. Norway is also expanding investment in wind and solar energy to reduce its carbon footprint further. Sustainable transportation is also one of the factors, and we are the leaders in using electric vehicles. We invest in environmental education and public campaigns to raise awareness among our citizens about sustainability, foster a culture of environmental responsibility, and actively participate in international environmental agreements.

Norway will focus on several essential goals in the upcoming period. The plan is to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Norway also aims to diversify its renewable energy portfolio by developing large-scale offshore wind farms. We are committed to increasing the protected land area from 17 percent to 30 percent by 2030 and improving the sustainable use of materials and recycling.

Regarding our international work and commitments, the most important goals are to limit the global increase in temperature, enable vulnerable countries to adapt, reduce the consequences of natural disasters, prevent deforestation, and promote economic development and food security.

IN FOCUS:

Q: What percentage of Norway’s energy consumption currently comes from renewable sources, and what are the plans for further growth in this sector?

A: When it comes to energy consumption, electricity makes up almost half (47 percent) of energy consumption, and in Norway, electricity is almost solely produced by hydro energy (90 percent) and wind energy (9 percent). Another 7 percent of consumption is biofuels and waste fuels. Therefore, we can say that more than half of consumption is entirely green (54 percent). The other 46 percent of consumption is oil products (37 percent), and natural gas and coal at around 3-4 percent each. They fall under so-called hard-to-abate sectors such as industry and transport, which require energy to run factories, fuel automobiles, and heat or cool homes. While we can be satisfied with what we have achieved in producing electricity, there is still work ahead in transforming industry and transport. Oil is primarily used in transport where, despite recent exponential growth in EV sales, most cars, trucks, ships, and aircraft are still powered by oil-based fuels burned in internal combustion engines. Other major sources of CO₂ emissions from oil include heating homes and businesses and making plastics and chemicals. When it comes to energy used for industry today in Norway, I can say that oil is not used that much (only 10 percent), but we do use it for industrial non-energy uses, notably for the production of asphalt, engine lubricants, and raw materials for making plastics.

There are many plans for the future. There is continuous effort in developing both offshore and land-based wind power capacities. Additionally, an increasing number of companies are entering the hydrogen sector. The government has singled out hydrogen as a key strategy in the green shift, making available funding for research & development. Ammonia may become the clean fuel of choice by ship owners for deep-sea shipping. We are actively developing energy storage solutions. A few gigawatt battery factories are in the pipeline; one actually opened this August in Arendal, with goals of sourcing cobalt, nickel, and other minerals from the region or changing the composition of batteries to reduce the need to import rare earth minerals.

Q: How does Norway address the challenges of the energy transition, particularly in balancing energy security with sustainability goals?

A: We are “navigating” between the two multifaceted approaches. Our hydropower dominance provides a stable source of clean energy. We are investing a lot in developing new energy sources such as offshore wind, hydrogen production, and battery technologies. In parallel, digitalization is essential for energy transition because it enables business models that improve energy efficiency. Lastly, we are implementing carbon capture and storage systems to decarbonize our economy further. All this said we should not try to “greenwash” the reality. It is a fact that despite our commitment to sustainability, we remain a major producer and exporter of oil and gas. This sector is crucial for energy security in Norway and European markets. It is also one of the largest employment sectors in Norway, with 200,000 people working there. So, we can say that Norway aims to maintain stable production while gradually transitioning to greener alternatives.

Interview by Milica Radičević

Read the whole interview in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

American Shift: Withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, Open Doors to the Fossil Fuels

21.01.2025

amerika-zastava — Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (Manny Becerra)

The United States will withdraw from the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement, marking one of the first moves by the new administration of President Donald Trump. This is not the first time such a withdrawal has occurred—the U.S. previously exited the agreement during Trump’s prior term, although the accord was still in its early stages of implementation at that time.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Lukas Juhas)

This decision reaffirms the administration’s focus on energy production through fossil fuels, justified by the argument that increased oil and gas exploitation will reduce the high cost of living for citizens. This reasoning reflects the stance of the previous term, which viewed such agreements as unfavorable and as a drag on the economy. However, environmental experts warn that this pivot could significantly increase greenhouse gas emissions and hinder global efforts to combat climate change, given that the U.S. is one of the largest polluters.

As one of the wealthiest countries in the world, the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, much like in 2017, could impact other nations by reducing financial contributions to the Green Climate Fund, as current policies generally aim to cut climate-related expenditures.

Consequently, this decision calls into question previously set targets, such as the U.S. commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 61–66 percent by 2035 compared to 2005 levels—a goal that will now be unattainable under the new policies.

Among the latest executive orders, measures from the previous administration have been rolled back, including bans on oil drilling in the Alaska and certain coastal areas. This opens the door for accelerated exploration of new oil and gas fields, alarming environmental groups. They argue that drilling, extraction, and subsequent use of these fuels will intensify climate change, with shrinking permanent ice and rising sea levels as ongoing consequences.

As previously reported, this shift also raises questions about the U.S.’s geopolitical influence in the Arctic, particularly following the president’s statements on the need to „acquire Greenland”. Greenland, a gateway to the Arctic, is rich in resources, energy reserves, and minerals, many of which remain largely untapped due to the presence of permanent ice. However, as glaciers thin, access to potentially abundant energy reserves becomes easier. For the U.S., interest in Greenland could represent a long-term strategic move to secure a stronger position in the Arctic race with other nations and enhance energy stability while gaining greater control over key maritime passages.

The U.S. withdrawal from climate agreements is already prompting a reevaluation of global strategies. Some countries, such as Argentina, have announced plans to revise their climate agendas, according to international media reports. The concern lies in the ripple effect of U.S. policies on other nations, potentially weakening international cooperation in combating climate change, particularly among major polluters whose policies do not align with such agreements.

Energy portal

European People’s Party: Climate Goals Must Align with EU Industry Preservation

21.01.2025

industry-industrija — Foto - ilustracija: Pixabay

Over the past decades, the European Union has achieved significant success by creating a single market, reducing trade barriers within Europe, and establishing global trade agreements. This progress has led to economic growth, job creation for citizens, and increased competitiveness for European companies.

However, since the start of the 21st century, growth in Europe has slowed compared to other global regions. For instance, the GDP gap between the US and the EU widened from 17 percent in 2002 to 30 percent in 2023.

Representatives of the European People’s Party (EPP) warn that the primary reason for the weakening domestic economy is the substantial pressure created by complex administration and numerous obligations related to climate goals.

Referring to a report by Mario Draghi, former president of the European Central Bank, titled The Future of European Competitiveness, the EPP highlights that strict regulations continue to impose burdens on the economy, particularly on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

EPP leaders gathered on January 17-18 at a summit in Berlin to shape the EU’s future through a „determined, ambitious, and comprehensive agenda of deregulation and simplification”.

In a joint document, key leaders such as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, likely future German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo propose a return to policies that dominated before 2019, prior to the onset of the green wave of policies, Euractiv reports.

Reducing Regulations and Easing Climate Policy

More than half of SMEs in Europe identify regulatory barriers and administrative burdens as their biggest challenges. Although regulations can benefit companies by harmonizing various national and technical rules, the EPP emphasizes that they also impose numerous additional obligations and burdens, accumulating over time.

Moreover, while the EU has adopted ambitious climate goals and policies for achieving them, their implementation must not lead to the deindustrialization of Europe, the EPP warns.

If climate policies hinder competitiveness and growth, they will not only lose the support of European citizens but also risk increasing global emissions as industries relocate to regions with higher emissions.

Another burden on the European economy is the high cost of electricity and natural gas. The party notes that access to affordable energy is a key prerequisite for growth and job creation, while EU companies currently face electricity prices that are two to three times higher than in the US, with natural gas prices up to five times higher.

Therefore, EPP representatives support the EU’s intention to leverage all available energy solutions, including renewable energy, nuclear power, hydrogen, bioenergy, and carbon capture, utilization, and storage.

Regarding the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), the party described it as a straightforward system that encourages market efficiency and reduces carbon emissions. However, they added that excessive regulations, such as mandatory renovations for homeowners, are unnecessary.

To address high energy costs, a larger portion of ETS revenues should be allocated to energy-intensive industries, such as support for green hydrogen or carbon capture and storage solutions. In this context, the party welcomes the Commission’s plan for a „Clean Industry Deal”, which aims to combine green growth with industrial competitiveness on a global level.

The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) must also be examined for its effects on bureaucracy and competitiveness across different sectors of the economy.

„If we want the EU to create new growth and jobs, the European Commission, as well as the European Parliament, the Council, and national and local authorities, must show restraint regarding every new regulation. This requires a new way of thinking. Not every good idea needs to become law—EU efforts should focus on major issues rather than regulating every aspect of people’s lives. This is how the EU’s successful story of the past decades can remain successful in the future”, the party states.

Milena Maglovski

The Battle for Dominance in Greenland – Are Energy Resources and the Arctic Path Shaping the Issue?

20.01.2025

The world’s largest island, Greenland, has recently been gaining increased attention due to political statements, especially those originating from the United States. While Greenland is a self-governing autonomous territory, it remains part of the Kingdom of Denmark, which means that the Danish government retains authority over major governance and international relations. Greenland is situated in a highly strategic location—on the shortest route from North America to Europe. Beyond Europe, it is also a gateway to the Arctic, making it no surprise that it has caught the interest of the United States, a crucial partner for Denmark in both trade and geopolitics. This further complicates the consequences of statements and claims originating from across the Atlantic.

Greenland’s geographical position in the Arctic Circle is pivotal in understanding the long-term plans of global powers. Although three-quarters of this territory is covered in ice, Greenland has historical ties to Europe but can today be seen as a separate entity, particularly considering the potential exploitation of its hidden natural resources. The melting glaciers caused by climate change are increasingly opening access to potentially vast reserves of oil, gas, and rare minerals. Beyond the obvious energy significance, this could offer significant economic benefits to any nation that invests in exploration. Furthermore, the retreating Arctic ice is shortening maritime routes between major global markets, presenting new economic advantages.

Mentions of Greenland in political discourse are also closely tied to questions of Arctic rights and territorial claims. With Greenland as a base, Denmark secures a claim to a portion of the Arctic, which is also strategically important to the United States. On a global scale, the Arctic has become a hotspot for the interests of major powers due to its massive reserves of natural resources and its strategic location that facilitates control over the region.

The Arctic itself is not owned by any single nation, but several countries—the United States (via Alaska), Canada, Russia, Norway, Denmark (via Greenland), and Iceland—can, under United Nations rules, claim to expand their exclusive economic zones. According to UNCLOS (the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 1982), each state has an exclusive economic zone (EEZ) extending up to 200 nautical miles (approximately 370 kilometers) from its coasts, where it has exclusive rights to the sea’s resources and can expand its continental shelf up to 350 nautical miles if a geological connection to the mainland is proven. The convention also defines territorial waters up to 12 nautical miles and establishes mechanisms for resolving disputes. However, the United States has yet to ratify this convention, which creates additional legal and political tensions.

Russia, on the other hand, is actively working to prove that the seabed of the Arctic Ocean is an extension of its Siberian continental shelf in order to secure additional rights to exploration under these rules. Norway, Denmark, and Canada are also developing their own strategies to define rights to Arctic space. The result of such competition is a complex legal and geopolitical situation, where major players are vying for control over resources and maritime routes.

With glaciers thinning, access to potentially rich energy reserves becomes increasingly feasible. For the United States, interest in Greenland could be a long-term strategic move, securing a stronger position in the Arctic race, bolstering energy stability, and increasing control over crucial maritime passages.

Energy portal

Larvae as a Solution for Pollution and Sustainable Agriculture

19.01.2025

Boris-Vasiljev2 — Photo: courtesy of Boris Vasiljev

Opinions about insects are often divided, ranging from fear to admiration. Some view them as pests and worthless creatures, while others recognize their crucial role in maintaining healthy and balanced ecosystems. It’s also important to mention experts who study insects and discover that they can provide multiple benefits. In fact, some of these tiny creatures can be extremely useful in solving certain environmental challenges that humanity faces. Boris Vasiljev from the Belinda Animals Company reveals how larvae impact the environment and contribute to ecology.

The larvae of the mealworm beetle, or Tenebrio molitor larvae (commonly known as mealworms), play a significant role in sustainable animal feed production, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and preserving the environment through plastic degradation and organic fertilizer production. They are naturally found in grain and mill product storage facilities and can often be found in household environments—such as flour.

These larvae utilize various plant-based wastes, such as silo waste, broken grains, and various animal feed leftovers on farms. Additionally, they consume green plant waste, such as fruits and vegetables unsuitable for sale or use, stale bread, and more. Their usefulness is also evident in their ability to concentrate proteins in their bodies while feeding on plant waste. Compared to cattle, which emit as much as 2,850 grams of greenhouse gases for every kilogram of body mass gained, larvae emit only one gram.

IN FOCUS:

As Vasiljev points out, cattle, whose meat meal is used in animal feed, emit 2,850 times more CO2 equivalent compared to larvae. Moreover, larvae feed on waste that would otherwise end up in landfills.

Mealworm larvae are rich in proteins (45–60 percent of dry mass), fats (30–45 percent of dry mass), as well as vitamins, omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids, and fibers and minerals. This indicates that their nutritional composition is superior to that of other components of animal feed. Practically, protein meals from larvae could completely replace soybean meals and fish meals in poultry, pig, and fish feed.

In addition to being used in animal feed production, these creatures also find their place in agriculture for vegetable and fruit growers. During their cultivation, a type of manure is produced, known globally as FRASS. This includes larvae excrement, food residues, shed skins, and the remains of deceased individuals, which collectively represent high-quality organic microbiological fertilizers. It can be applied as pellets alone or with added mineral fertilizers in various formulations.

Speaking about Serbia, Vasiljev notes that the cultivation of Tenebrio larvae is still a topic discussed mainly in scientific circles. Their team is preparing to organize mass education and training for this cultivation, as insect protein is officially approved for animal feed in Serbia.

Prepared by Katarina Vuinac

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine ECOLOGICAL TRANSPORT.

Balkan Solar Summit 2025 – Shaping the Future of Sustainable Energy

19.01.2025

The third Balkan Solar Summit will take place in Banja Luka on February 27-28, 2025, gathering over 500 industry leaders, decision-makers, investors, and experts from across the region, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Slovenia, and beyond.

The event’s mission is to shape the future of sustainable energy, and this year’s program includes carefully selected topics that highlight the region’s most pressing challenges and opportunities.

Panels and lectures will cover all aspects of the energy transition – from the green transformation of companies and challenges in project financing structures to energy system stability and the potential of energy storage systems.

Discussions on these critical topics will be led by prominent experts, including Uroš Bojanić (EFT), Ranko Goić (FRACTAL), Marko Janković (CWP Europe), Luka Okuka (SCC – Security Coordination Centre), Patar Mitrović (Karanovic & Partners), Aldin Međedović (UNDP), Vladimir Rajić (Integrity Capital), and many others who will engage in dynamic and constructive conversations, offering insights and solutions to the most pressing questions of the region’s energy transition.

Special attention will be given to practical experiences and examples, such as the completion of major renewable energy projects in the region. Leading experts will also discuss the integration of renewable energy sources into the power grid and the role of technologies like battery solutions. Key challenges, such as the implementation of the CBAM regulation and its role as either an incentive or obstacle for decarbonization, will also be explored.

Additionally, a side event titled “From Waste to Energy and Decarbonization” will feature leading EU companies presenting innovative waste-to-energy solutions that have made their cities among the most energy-sustainable in the world.

Balkan Solar Summit 2025 is not only an opportunity to learn and exchange ideas but also a platform to connect with key stakeholders and initiate concrete projects. The event sets new standards for promoting sustainable solutions and invites everyone who wants to be part of the green energy future to join.

For more information, visit here.

Energy portal

Drive Electric

18.01.2025

elektric+car+vehicle — Photo-illustration: Pexels (David Gallie)

Although electromobility has well-known advantages, often discussed in the media, it’s equally essential to highlight its challenges, uncertainties, and concerns. The rise in electric and hybrid vehicles globally has raised important safety questions, especially concerning fire risks.

Although the overall fire risk is lower compared to conventional vehicles, the flammability of batteries presents a significant challenge. The difficulty of extinguishing such fires and the possibility of re-ignition remain critical safety issues in e-mobility. For this reason, we spoke with Zorana Đorić, the manager of the Drive Electric initiative, to help us understand what must not be overlooked when dealing with battery-powered vehicles.

„Statistics show that for every 10 million electric vehicles, about 500 fires are recorded. This means the probability of fire in electric vehicles is 29 times lower than in vehicles with internal combustion engines”, explains Zorana.

However, despite the lower probability, fires in electric vehicles require a much quicker response than in traditional cars. Fires in electric vehicles spread faster, and emergency services often cannot respond within the required timeframe. Moreover, the same fire suppression methods used for conventional vehicles cannot be applied to electric ones. Traditional cars can be extinguished using standard techniques, but battery cooling methods are required for electric vehicles.

Consequently, the global community and individual countries must develop new, more effective safety technologies. While advancements are already being made worldwide, anyone opting for an electric vehicle must acquire the necessary knowledge to handle it properly. One key piece of information for electric vehicle owners is the Emergency Sheet, which indicates the position of safety switches that disconnect the vehicle from power.

IN FOCUS:

This document contains essential safety information for handling the vehicle in emergencies, including the location of the battery, instructions for turning off main electrical switches to minimize the risk of electric shock, safe points for cutting the vehicle to facilitate rescue operations, and guidelines for effective fire suppression. This sheet is also a critical resource for emergency responders.

Owners must also familiarize themselves with indicator lights, which differ significantly from those found in vehicles with internal combustion engines. These lights warn of faults or conditions that may endanger the driver.

„Electric vehicles are now part of our present and are becoming more common in cities worldwide. It’s human nature to resist the unfamiliar, but that doesn’t exempt us from understanding safety systems and acquiring the necessary knowledge to protect ourselves and others”, Zorana emphasizes.

Professional Training Programs

The Drive Electric team has been involved in electromobility for six years, primarily through technical innovation. They organized the First Battery Conference and the International Symposium on E-Mobility. Over time, however, they realized the need to go further, leading to the creation of the Green Drive Academy. The academy aims to provide in-depth knowledge of systems, technical details, and medical aspects, highlight potential hazards, and explain the differences between electric and conventional vehicles.

The team comprises licensed professionals specializing in electric vehicle maintenance and repair, court experts, mechanical and electrical engineers, and medical experts responsible for health recommendations and safety advice. To conclude, Zorana emphasizes that electromobility has arrived, and we must familiarize ourselves with all its aspects. Her advice: „Be responsible”.

Prepared by Milica Vučković

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine ECOLOGICAL TRANSPORT.

UNEP Reports: Methane Leak Following Nord Stream Explosions Among Largest in History

17.01.2025

manuel-keller-97jM6y9UFkk-unsplash — Photo-illustration: Unsplash (manuel-keller)

Nord Stream refers to the underwater pipeline system transporting natural gas from Russia to Europe, spanning 1,200 kilometers beneath the Baltic Sea. This system directly connected Russian gas resources with European markets, bypassing transit countries and delivering gas directly to Germany.

In September 2022, a significant event shook the global energy sector—explosions caused the rupture of the pipeline under the Baltic Sea. During the series of explosions, at least 50 meters of underwater cables were destroyed. The incident not only triggered political turmoil and investigations but also disrupted gas supplies and had profound environmental consequences.

A recent study coordinated by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) revealed that this was the largest anthropogenic methane leak in history.

According to estimates, up to 485,000 tons of methane were released—twice the volume previously considered the largest historical release.

This vast amount of methane contributed to global warming at a scale equivalent to the emissions from eight million cars over a year. While methane remains in the atmosphere for about a decade, its heat-trapping potential is over 80 times greater than that of carbon dioxide, the most common greenhouse gas.

The study highlighted that such events are only a fraction of the broader issue, as the pipeline explosion accounted for just two days’ worth of methane emissions from the global oil and gas industry.

Energy portal

How Solar Companies Are Responding to Global Challenges

15.01.2025

In the world of renewable energy, the solar industry is undergoing dynamic changes shaping its future development. Intense competition among panel manufacturers, rising investor expectations, and technological innovations raise numerous questions about market sustainability and the prospects for solar power plants. We spoke with Nino Sijerić, a business development expert at Luxor Solar GmbH, a company known for its high-quality photovoltaic modules, about the challenges and trends in the industry, key criteria for panel selection, and the importance of trust in relationships between investors, EPC companies, and manufacturers.

The solar panel market is going through a turbulent period—fierce competition among manufacturers has led to price drops and reduced profitability. How will this trend impact European manufacturers in the coming years?

“This trend will lead to market consolidation. Some companies will exit the market, while others will change ownership. Investors will become more cautious when selecting partners and will work only with proven companies. The current situation in the solar power market creates a lot of uncertainty in decision-making. Today, investors do not only choose modules and contractors; the reputation of the company behind the product is equally important. If price becomes the main decision factor, investors will face long-term issues—’pay a little now, pay a lot later.'”

What characteristics must a company have to survive in such a challenging period?

“Flexibility is the key word. Quick responses and adaptability to market changes will be crucial. I call this ‘photovoltaic Darwinism’—it’s not the biggest or strongest that will survive but the one that adapts the fastest to market needs. Speed in decision-making and innovation will be of essential importance. For example, products tailored to the specific needs of clients will help them choose the optimal solution more easily.”

The market now offers numerous models of solar panels with varying prices and quality. How would you advise buyers to make the best choice?

“When choosing solar panels, buyers should consider several key factors to ensure maximum return on investment and long-term benefits: Price – It’s important to find a balance between price, efficiency, and warranties. The cheapest panels aren’t always the best solution. Quality – Opting for reputable manufacturers often means better after-sales support and assurance of panel longevity. Efficiency – A higher efficiency level means fewer panels are needed to generate the same amount of energy. Warranty – Most panels come with a 25-year energy production warranty, and some offer longer warranties on the product itself. Buyers should definitely consult experts and installers to assess their energy needs and select the best product. In the long run, quality will always outweigh low cost.”

IN FOCUS:

How important is it for buyers to know which company stands behind their modules?

“Knowing the manufacturer of solar panels is crucial for making informed decisions and ensuring the long-term value of an investment. The quality and reliability of panels are intrinsically linked to the reputation of the manufacturer, as it reflects the performance and durability of the product. Warranties play a critical role in investment security – it’s especially important to know whether they are tied to a company based in the European Union or China.

Reputable manufacturers often provide top-tier support for maintenance and servicing throughout the panel’s lifecycle, significantly enhancing their longevity. Additionally, ethical principles and sustainability practices are increasingly important factors in the selection process, as today’s buyers value companies operating in alignment with sustainable practices.

The financial stability of the manufacturer is also crucial. Companies with a long-standing market presence and consistent ownership structures provide added security and trust. All this information allows buyers to choose panels that deliver optimal performance and lasting value for their investment.”

Last year, solar energy was the leading form of renewable energy in terms of new installations. Will changes in the solar panel market affect its further development?

“Solar power plants will remain a key energy source and an essential part of countries’ renewable energy supply. However, in the future, we will face challenges such as grid balancing. Some countries are already producing up to 60 percent of their energy from solar sources during the summer, which sometimes creates a surplus the grid cannot absorb. The solution will be energy storage in batteries, which would allow the use of surplus energy when the sun is not shining and ease the burden on the grid system.

Once batteries achieve technological maturity and a lifespan of 20 or more years, the solar revolution will truly take off—every household or factory will be able to achieve energy independence.”

How can mutual trust be ensured between investors, EPC companies, and solar panel manufacturers?

“Trust is built on experience and proven results. The more satisfied users of solar power plants there are, the greater the trust in the technology and contractors. Panel manufacturers gain trust through their performance. For example, at the same location and with identical inverter systems, an investor using Chinese TIER 1 modules had 20 percent lower energy production than one who used Luxor modules. When that percentage is multiplied over 20 years, it becomes clear why trust in quality is crucial—not only in terms of the panels but also in terms of contractor recommendations.”

Interviewed by: Milena Maglovski

The interview was published in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

1...111213...403 Page 12 of 403

IN FOCUS:

IN FOCUS:

More:

More:

Reducing Regulations and Easing Climate Policy

More:

More:

IN FOCUS:

More:

IN FOCUS:

Professional Training Programs

More:

More:

Second Call Details

IN FOCUS:

Newsletter

Calendar of events

2025 April

Events for 30 April

Events for 1 May

Events for 2 May

Events for 3 May

Events for 4 May

Events for 5 May

Events for 6 May

Events for 7 May

Events for 8 May

Events for 9 May

Events for 10 May

Events for 11 May

Events for 12 May

Events for 13 May

Events for 14 May

Events for 15 May

Events for 16 May

Events for 17 May

Events for 18 May

Events for 19 May

Events for 20 May

Events for 21 May

Events for 22 May

Events for 23 May

Events for 24 May

Events for 25 May

Events for 26 May

Events for 27 May

Events for 28 May

Events for 29 May

Events for 30 May

WRITE US