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Energy passport – The id card of buildings

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (OpenClipart-Vectors)

An energy passport is a certificate that outlines the energy performance of a building — an official document with a strictly defined format and content, issued by an authorized organization, and valid for a period of ten years. Its purpose is not to introduce another administrative requirement, but to provide owners and buyers with a clear and complete picture of how energy-efficient (or inefficient) a building is, depending on the category it falls into. Additionally, it provides insight into expected energy costs and recommends measures to reduce overall consumption.

The obligation to possess an energy passport stems from the EU Directive on the Energy Performance of Buildings (EPBD), which was first introduced in 2002. Serbia adopted it in 2005 upon joining the Energy Community. While specific systems vary from country to country, they share a common foundation — a scale of energy classes ranging from A to G, as well as mandatory categorization of buildings based on their energy consumption.

In Serbia, energy efficiency is expressed through energy classes — from A+, representing the highest level of energy performance, to G, assigned to buildings with poor characteristics and very high energy consumption. According to current regulations, new buildings must meet at least Class C standards. For reconstructions and renovations, it is required that the building’s energy performance improves by at least one class compared to its previous state.

According to the amendments to the Law on Planning and Construction from 2023, the energy passport, which had already been a requirement for obtaining a construction and occupancy permit for new buildings, is now also mandatory for all existing buildings. The amendments stipulate that, within three years, all public buildings must possess the certificate (deadline: August 2026), while business buildings are required to do so by 2028. Residential buildings have a ten-year deadline, which is practically until 2033. Once issued, the energy passport is valid for ten years. In the event of failure to meet this legal obligation within the prescribed period, according to current data, a fine ranging from 25,000 to 50,000 dinars is prescribed.

The issuance of the energy passport is based on an energy inspection of the building and project documentation. The energy inspection and certification process is carried out by a licensed engineer specializing in building energy efficiency, and the certificate is issued through the Central Register of Energy Passports (CREP) – an information system of the Ministry of Construction that maintains records of all issued documents and authorized organizations.

According to the Rulebook on the conditions, content, and method of issuing certificates on the energy performance of buildings, an energy passport for residential buildings usually consists of five pages. The first page contains basic information, including the owner’s name, location, and a photograph of the building, as well as the designation of the building’s energy class. The second page provides information on heating, cooling, and ventilation systems, the share of renewable energy sources, and data on the thermal envelope – walls, exterior doors, roof windows, and other categories. The third page presents, among other things, data on measured energy consumption, while the fourth contains recommendations for improvement, such as modernizing heating systems or enhancing insulation. The fifth page provides definitions of technical terms, such as: “Annual carbon dioxide emission (CO₂ [kg/a]) represents the mass of carbon dioxide emitted into the external environment during one year as a consequence of the building’s energy needs.”

According to the rulebook above, there are also exceptions. For example, an energy passport is not mandatory for buildings with a planned lifespan of up to two years, certain temporary structures, buildings that are not heated or are heated to a temperature of up to 12°C, buildings used for religious purposes, and other categories defined in the rulebook.

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Data from the Central Register of Energy Passports (CREP) – Current Situation in Serbia

According to the latest data provided by the Central Register of Energy Passports (CREP), as of September 30, 2025, a total of 21,693 energy passports have been issued in Serbia.

When it comes to energy classes, the most common is Class C, which also represents the legal minimum for all newly constructed buildings. According to CREP data, about 80.28 percent of all buildings fall into this energy class. They are followed by Class B buildings, which comprise approximately 7.8 percent, while buildings classified in Classes D, E, F, and G – representing lower energy performance – account for a total of around 8 percent. The remaining 3.91 percent of buildings belong to other categories.

In terms of territorial distribution, CREP reports that the number of issued energy passports largely follows the number of constructed and reconstructed buildings, as well as the population density and level of economic activity in a given area. In other words, the largest number of certificates is issued in major cities and more developed regions of Serbia, where construction activity is most intensive.

Energy Passports as a Tool Against Energy Poverty

Serbia has undertaken the obligation to align its energy sector with European standards and to implement essential reforms in the field of energy efficiency. It is precisely within this framework that two concepts intersect, which, although they may seem separate to some, are in fact deeply connected — the energy passport and energy poverty.

In March of this year, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia published a document titled Guide to the Energy Passport and, with the support of the Heinrich Böll Foundation, organized a seminar on the topic. This document clearly outlines the relationship between the two concepts, as well as the importance of building certification in reducing energy consumption.

First and foremost, energy poverty refers to the inability of households to secure sufficient energy for basic needs such as heating, cooling, or lighting. It results from a combination of low income, high energy costs, and poor energy performance of buildings. In Serbia, according to data from the aforementioned guide, this problem affects around 200,000 households. An additional challenge comes from the large number of unregistered buildings — nearly two million — which, as they are not included in official records, cannot be covered by energy renovation programs or state subsidies, thereby further deepening social and energy inequality.

This is where the energy passport gains its broader social role and application — as a tool for overcoming energy poverty. Since it provides a transparent overview of a building’s energy performance and specific recommendations for improvement, households can, based on this information, identify where they are losing energy and money. Meanwhile, the state gains a foundation for designing targeted assistance programs, such as subsidies, furnace replacements, and energy renovation projects.

The most important piece of data in an energy passport is the energy efficiency parameter – the amount of heat required to heat a building during one year, expressed per square meter of heated surface. In Europe, according to the latest available data and the Guide, approximately 40 percent of the total energy produced is spent on heating and cooling buildings. In Serbia, this share reaches 47 percent, clearly indicating that the building sector is a key link in the energy transition.

Therefore, energy passports and systematic investments in improving energy efficiency represent the foundation of every serious policy aimed at reducing energy poverty and protecting the environment.

Prepared by: Milica Vučković

The story was published in Energy portal Magazine GREEN ARCHITECTURE

Serbia: What the New GHG Emissions Tax Law Will Bring from 2026

Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

From January 2026, the Law on Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Tax will come into effect in Serbia, in order to establish a fiscal mechanism for the systematic reduction of industrial emissions and to encourage the adoption of lower-emission technologies. In this way, funds in the budget of the Republic of Serbia are also secured, which can be used to promote investments related to the green transition, according to the Law.

The new law represents part of Serbia’s obligations in the process of alignment with European climate policies and the CBAM mechanism, which also starts on January 1, 2026. In addition, the law aims to establish the “polluter pays” principle, introducing the costs of pollution into business activities.

The Law on Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Tax introduces a tax that is calculated and paid on the taxable amount of GHG that the taxpayer emits during the tax period, in accordance with this law.

The taxpayer is a legal entity or entrepreneur who, according to climate change laws, must possess a permit for greenhouse gas emissions. This applies to those managing facilities or parts of facilities for which the permit is mandatory.

The tax applies to facilities engaged in one or more of the following activities:

  • Production of artificial fertilizers and nitrogen compounds
  • Production of cement
  • Production of crude iron, steel, and ferroalloys
  • Production of aluminum
  • Production of electricity

How is the GHG tax calculated?

The Law states that the tax base is determined as the amount of GHG emissions that the taxpayer emits during the tax period from all individual facilities, reduced by the amount of emissions that is reference for a specific production process or activity.

Explanation:

The tax period is usually a whole calendar year, except if the facility is just starting operations or ceasing operations – then the period is calculated from the start to the end of operation within that year.

Total emissions are the amount of GHG emissions that the taxpayer emits during the tax period. They are determined based on verified reports submitted by the taxpayer to the competent authority in accordance with regulations governing climate change.

The reference emission can be simply explained as the minimal amount of gases that cannot be completely eliminated during production, even when the most advanced technology is used and maximum efficiency is achieved.

The tax base is obtained when the reference emission is subtracted from total emissions. This is a prerequisite for determining the total amount of the tax obligation.

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How is the amount of tax liability calculated?

The tax base is expressed in tons of CO2. For emissions that are not carbon dioxide, the CO2 equivalent is used, meaning that their amount is converted to have the same warming effect as CO2. The resulting value is then multiplied by the tax rate of 4 euros per ton, expressed in dinar equivalent according to the exchange rate of the National Bank of Serbia.

Example of calculating the GHG tax:

Let’s say a company emits 600 tons of CO2 during the year, and the reference emission for its production processes is 360 tons.

The tax base is obtained by subtracting the reference emission: 600 – 360 = 240 tons.

The tax base is multiplied by the tax rate of 4 euros per ton, converted into dinars: 240 × 4 euros = 960 euros in dinar equivalent.

Tax credit

A special article of the Law provides for a tax credit, which means a reduction of the tax for companies that meet certain conditions.

The credit can only be used by companies whose main activity is electricity production, i.e., if at least 80 percent of revenue comes from electricity production.

The credit is granted for investments in activities and measures that reduce GHG. The company receives 20 percent of the invested money, meaning that this amount reduces the GHG tax.

The credit cannot reduce the tax by more than 80 percent of the total tax obligation.

The company must keep records and retain invoices and evidence of the invested funds while the tax payment period lasts, and the Government prescribes which activities are recognized for using the credit.

Incentives for decarbonization

The law stipulates that companies can receive financial assistance from the budget of Serbia for projects that reduce emissions and accelerate the green transformation, including investments in renewable energy sources, energy efficiency, innovative low-carbon technologies, green construction, and more. The Government determines the conditions, criteria, and method of allocating funds, as well as the method and deadlines for reporting on the use of funds.

The law will be applied from January 1, 2026, while the provisions of the Law relating to the tax credit and decarbonization incentives will apply for ten years, starting from the day the law enters into force.

For more on tax filing and payment, read here.

Energetski portal

Bioplastic Film – Sustainable Buildings With Passive Cooling

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Nguyen Phan Nam Anh)

Sustainable and climate-resilient buildings are increasingly adopting passive cooling principles, reducing electricity consumption and relying on conventional cooling systems only when necessary. Researchers from Zhengzhou University in China and the University of South Australia have developed an innovative solution of this kind—a bioplastic cooling metafilm (BPCM).

Thanks to its thin, lightweight structure and ease of installation, the film can be easily adapted to various surfaces – from roofs and façades to integration into building materials. Although such innovations are often associated with new construction, their characteristics can also be highly beneficial for older buildings, where extensive construction work is difficult or not cost-effective. In addition to cooling, the film reduces the load on the power grid during hot months, which is essential for preventing power shortages and mitigating the urban heat island effect, when buildings further heat up cities.

An additional value of the film lies in its biodegradable material, which makes it environmentally friendly and helps reduce plastic pollution, as it contains no petroleum-based plastics. The film is made from biodegradable PLA (polylactic acid) derived from renewable sources such as corn starch. It is specially engineered to contain microscopic crystals and pores that help reflect sunlight and release heat.

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How the Innovation Works

As a passive system, the film does not require electricity to operate – it functions independently. Instead of absorbing sunlight and allowing it to penetrate indoor spaces, the film reflects it back into space, creating a natural cooling effect. The bioplastic film has an exceptional reflectivity of 98.7 percent, meaning it repels most sunlight. In comparison, its high thermal emissivity of 96.6 percent allows accumulated heat to be efficiently released into space, further cooling the building. The microscopic structures within the film enable heat from the building to be emitted as infrared radiation that passes through the atmosphere and is radiated directly into space.

According to a study published in Cell Reports Physical Science, its structure allows buildings to remain up to 9 degrees Celsius cooler than the outside temperature during the hottest part of the day, while the average daily cooling effect ranges from 5 to 6.5 degrees Celsius. Even after prolonged exposure to UV radiation and acids, the film retains its efficiency, making it durable and reliable.

Simulations have shown that the film can reduce annual cooling energy consumption in warm cities by up to 20 percent. Currently, air conditioners and other cooling systems account for about 15 percent of global electricity use and contribute significantly to carbon dioxide emissions so that this innovation could help substantially reduce that impact.

Through this technology, passive cooling is no longer just a scientific experiment – it is becoming a practical solution for everyday life that saves energy, money, and natural resources while making cities more livable.

Although the film is not yet widely commercially available, early adopters in Phoenix and Las Vegas have reported cooling cost reductions of about 15–18 percent during the hottest summer periods. While the film alone cannot fully replace all cooling systems, when combined with renewable energy sources such as rooftop solar panels, it represents a sustainable solution for the future.

Prepared by: Katarina Vuinac

The story was published in Energy portal Magazine GREEN ARCHITECTURE

Veljko Milković’s Invention Among the Top 10 in the World

Photo: Courtesy of Veljko Milković

For centuries, Serbian inventions have found their way to the world stage, leaving a lasting mark on science and technology. That Serbia still has much to be proud of today is confirmed by Veljko Milković, a scientist and innovator from Vojvodina, whose two-stage mechanical oscillator was recently named one of the top 10 inventions in the world at the prestigious iCAN 2025 competition in Canada.

Speaking for Energy Portal, Milković shared that this recognition brings him both great professional and personal satisfaction, as well as validation for all those who have believed in his work over the past decades.

“These were open-minded people, respected professors who reviewed my work without prejudice, recognized that the invention works, and publicly supported me. This award is, in fact, also theirs — a recognition for all intellectuals and individuals who have wholeheartedly stood by me,” says Milković.

He adds that he does not see his work as a career, but rather as a life mission and responsibility.

“I can’t even associate it with a job. It’s simply my activity, my duty — if I received information about this invention from somewhere. However, I don’t know from where, because that’s a mystery, then I have the obligation to develop it and do good with it as much as I can. Fortunately, the impact is being felt around the world, and this award is yet another confirmation that the effort has meaning,” concludes Milković.

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How the Two-Stage Mechanical Oscillator Works

Our interlocutor explains that this invention is essentially a simple mechanical energy amplifier, a mechanism that “profits” from the force of gravity within the natural gravitational field of the biosphere.

According to him, the two-stage mechanical oscillator technology has great potential and room for further improvement, as it is based on principles that open up new research opportunities. He emphasizes that he is encouraged by the growing public interest and recognition of the invention, as well as by the fact that there are still many curious and open-minded people who want to study and understand it.

Milković also highlights that the fundamental value of the oscillator lies in its ability to operate outside the boundaries of classical mechanics, generating new effects that modern science has yet to explain fully. He believes these phenomena should be approached with an open mind and calm observation, since, as he says, “within them lies a new dimension of understanding mechanical processes.”

“The rule with this oscillator,” Milković says, “is that there are no rules. What’s important to note is that ultra-efficiency has been achieved, and the further improvements I’m working on are beyond current comprehension. The system operates on entirely new principles, precisely in the area where no one expected new discoveries — in mechanics, which was believed to have been concluded 300 years ago with Isaac Newton. People used to say that after Newton, there was nothing new to discover in the field of mechanics. Yet, here we are — there is something new. I’m not claiming, even now, that I’ve put a final mark on mechanics — certainly not. But while some scholars have believed that the field was long completed, I simply don’t share that view,” he explains.

The Most Important Practical Applications of the Oscillator

The Serbian inventor explains that the initial application of the two-stage mechanical oscillator was recognized primarily as a water pump, intended for various processes such as irrigation, drainage, purification, and desalination of seawater. Further research revealed that the oscillator has broader industrial applications, especially in piston compressors, where experiments have produced excellent results.

This mechanism can also be used in ore crushing and construction material recycling processes, specifically in crushers and grinders for breaking down worn-out construction waste. In addition, research is advancing toward the use of the oscillator as an electric generator, which could open up the possibility of producing electricity in an innovative and energy-efficient way.

Prepared by: Milena Maglovski

The story was published in Energy portal Magazine GREEN ARCHITECTURE

A New Life for Old Turbine Blades: From Playgrounds to Surfboards

Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik) - AI

Producing clean energy is no longer enough for renewable sources to fully meet sustainability criteria. As their use grows and becomes an integral part of the everyday energy system, the questions move further: how do we store energy, how do we use it efficiently—and, perhaps most importantly—what happens to the technology once it reaches the end of its operational life?

I’ve written multiple times about wind turbines, their components, and their potential to be sustainably utilized even after they stop operating. So I’ll touch on that only briefly here: research shows that almost 90 percent of a wind turbine’s total mass can be recycled using existing waste-management methods. But turbine blades remain a real challenge—complex composite materials make them difficult to separate and recycle. Still, this shouldn’t be an excuse. If we truly want renewables to be sustainable, we must find solutions.

On its Circularity Hub platform, WindEurope has showcased several concrete and inspiring examples of how wind turbine blades can be given new value through four main approaches: reuse, repurposing, recycling, and recovery. These methods cover everything—from repairing and selling used components, to creatively repurposing blades into infrastructure or new products, to processing them into raw materials, or recovering energy and resources when recycling is not yet feasible.

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (distelAPPArath)

The first example I’ll share in this blog comes from the Netherlands, where the company Blade–Made transforms entire turbine blades into a modular noise-reduction wall. The same company also reshapes blades into durable playgrounds and urban furniture—segments of blades become climbing structures, seesaws, and benches, all while keeping the recognizable form and aesthetics of the original blade. Children can now play on them without even knowing they once powered a wind turbine.

In Spain, ACCIONA Energía, in cooperation with the fashion brand El Ganso, uses recycled blade material to produce sneakers, and in Australia the company created the world’s first surfboard made from wind turbine blades. The first ten prototypes were handcrafted on the Gold Coast.

When it comes to recycling, Spain is home to EnergyLoop, a specialized blade-recycling plant that processes composite materials which then become raw materials for construction, the automotive sector, aviation, and similar industries.

The recovery method is the least preferred option and is used when recycling simply isn’t possible—for example, due to the complexity of the material or technical limitations. In this process, blades are shredded and then used as fuel or feedstock in industrial processes, under controlled and closed-loop conditions. This prevents landfilling, but the material can no longer retain its original structural value.

One example comes from Finland, where Kuusakoski Recycling converts spent blades into raw material for cement production. The blades are shredded using advanced technology that poses no risk to people or the environment, and the resulting material is used in cement kilns. According to a recent WindEurope report, this approach significantly reduces CO₂ emissions in both cement production and waste management. Each ton of processed composite waste saves up to one ton of CO₂ compared to traditional incineration methods.

Recovery is a practical solution when other methods are not feasible, but the future of circular wind energy ultimately depends on recycling and reusing components.

Katarina Vuinac

Climate-Resilient Cities Through Sustainable Architecture and Green Infrastructure

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Dimitrije Milenkovic)

Climate change is increasingly shaping life in cities — from heat waves and floods to pressure on infrastructure and public health. The question of how to make urban environments more resilient has become one of the key issues in contemporary planning and development. How vulnerable are urban areas in Serbia to climate change, and what role do sustainable architecture and green infrastructure play in adapting to these challenges? These were the topics of our conversation with Ana Šabanović, research associate and PhD candidate at the Faculty of Architecture, University of Belgrade.

Q: Which climate changes most affect urban areas in Serbia, and what impact do they have on everyday city life?

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Maksim Samuilionak)

A: The most significant consequences of altered climatic conditions affecting urban areas in Serbia have been identified as an increase in average temperatures and in the frequency and intensity of heat waves, changes in precipitation patterns with a higher occurrence of extreme downpours and seasonal droughts, as well as an increased risk of floods and hydrological extremes. These factors directly affect water resources, urban infrastructure, and public health. Urban areas are particularly vulnerable to the urban heat island effect and to intense rainfall over short periods, which can damage transportation and utility networks, increase the incidence of heat-related health problems, and reduce residents’ daily comfort. This results in more frequent disruptions, such as traffic congestion, greater strain on the healthcare system, and economic losses.

Vulnerability assessments for Belgrade indicate that population density, the concentration of critical infrastructure, inadequate drainage systems, and a lack of green spaces further increase the risks to which the population is exposed — especially vulnerable groups such as the elderly and people with chronic illnesses. These challenges point to the need for systemic adaptation measures, which include more resilient infrastructure, sustainable resource management, and the expansion of blue-green areas.

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Q: When we talk about sustainable architecture and urbanism, how present are such solutions in our country today, and what should the largest cities focus on in the coming years to become more resilient to climate change?

A: In leading literature and global policy documents, green infrastructure is highlighted as one of the most effective solutions for adaptation. In national and local public policies and urban planning documents, sustainable and nature-based solutions have been recognized, but they are mostly formulated at the level of recommendations rather than binding regulations. For example, the General Regulation Plan for the Green Spaces System of Belgrade introduces an ecological index, along with recommendations for installing green roofs, green walls, or tree-lined streets. However, for cities to become more resilient, it is important that these solutions do not remain merely recommendations. Their broader application can be encouraged through incentive measures. Still, the key lies in systemic approaches — ensuring that the ecological index becomes a mandatory urban planning parameter and that elements of green infrastructure are incorporated into regulations for the construction, reconstruction, and maintenance of public infrastructure and public service complexes.

Q: Green infrastructure — parks, green roofs, tree lines, façades — is increasingly associated with quality of life. Which of these solutions do you consider particularly important for the largest cities in Serbia, and are they realistically applicable under our conditions?

A: The most important characteristic of green infrastructure is that it functions as a network whose elements are interconnected and form a single system, which makes ensuring its spatial continuity crucial. When considering the importance of individual elements, park and courtyard areas stand out as particularly valuable because tall greenery in direct contact with the ground has the greatest capacity to retain water during intense rainfall, while also providing a more comfortable environment during extreme heat. In this way, the urban heat island effect is significantly mitigated, and microclimatic conditions are improved. Connecting, linear elements — such as tree-lined streets — also play a major role. Research shows that streets with tree lines in Belgrade can be up to six degrees cooler than those without, which is crucial during summer heat waves. Elements of green infrastructure installed on buildings themselves, such as green roofs and façades, are also important. They contribute to the building’s energy efficiency and reduce heat gain, thereby influencing the microclimate of the immediate surroundings.

At the same time, such solutions reduce pressure on the sewage system by enabling water retention and slower release. All these elements, individually, have significance and their own functions, but their greatest value lies in their interconnection and integration into a unified, functional system of green infrastructure.

Interview by Katarina Vuinac

The interview was published in Energy portal Magazine GREEN ARCHITECTURE

Three New Laws Governing the Oil and Gas Sector Adopted

Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

The National Assembly has adopted three new laws regulating the oil and gas sector, which — as stated — will contribute to greater security, quality, and reliability of supply to the domestic market, as well as alignment with European Union regulations. These include the Oil Law, the Gas Law, and the Law on Mandatory Reserves of Oil, Oil Derivatives, and Natural Gas.

According to Dubravka Đedović Handanović, Minister of Mining and Energy, the oil sector plays a key role in Serbia’s energy security.

“Regardless of the challenges we face due to global crises and geopolitical tensions, our task is to ensure sufficient energy supplies for the domestic market and create conditions for a more efficient functioning of the energy system,” the minister emphasized. She added that the new laws will more clearly define the roles and obligations of all stakeholders in the sector, so that each actor, by fulfilling their part of the work, contributes to maintaining energy security in coordination with the Government and the Ministry.

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The Oil Law consolidates into a single framework all provisions previously regulated through several laws and numerous by-laws. The law also defines the level of operational reserves of oil derivatives and other energy sources that producers and traders of derivatives, producers of heat and electricity, as well as producers of heat from natural gas, are required to secure.

Regarding the adoption of a separate Gas Law, special attention has been given to ensuring the security of supply, including measures to be taken in the event of disruptions in the operation of the transmission or distribution system or disturbances on the market. In addition, the law regulates the certification process for natural gas storage operators before the Energy Agency, thereby fully aligning the draft with EU regulations in the area of natural gas storage. The adoption of the law will also contribute to harmonizing domestic legislation with the EU regulatory framework, as well as enhancing cooperation among countries in the region in cases of supply crises.

By adopting the Law on Mandatory Reserves of Oil, Oil Derivatives and Natural Gas, provisions related to mandatory reserves — currently regulated through multiple laws and by-laws — will also be consolidated into a single piece of legislation that clearly defines the rights and obligations of all participants involved in establishing and maintaining mandatory reserves.

Energy portal

Serbia Establishes Its First Bilateral Ecosystem for Implementing the EPR Model in the Tire Sector

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Robert Laursoo)

At the Future-Proof Industry: Innovation, Partnerships and Sustainable Growth conference, held at the Serbian Chamber of Commerce (PKS), representatives of Confindustria Serbia, the Italian company Innovando, and PKS signed a Memorandum of Understanding. This marks the beginning of the first bilateral ecosystem dedicated to applying the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) model in Serbia’s tire sector.

EPR, or Extended Producer Responsibility, is a European waste management framework that requires manufacturers to take responsibility for their products throughout the entire lifecycle—including collection, recycling, and disposal once the product is no longer in use. The system is designed to encourage the development of more sustainable product design.

As highlighted at the conference, the competitiveness of Serbian industry will increasingly depend on how quickly it aligns with European ESG standards and green regulations. For that reason, launching the Serbian–Italian EPR ecosystem represents an important step toward a more modern, responsible, and globally competitive industrial landscape.

Mihailo Vesović, Deputy President of the Serbian Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of accelerating the alignment of domestic industry with European standards, noting that emissions in certain sectors remain above the EU average. He also recalled the introduction of the EU’s CBAM mechanism, which acts as an additional driver for faster compliance.

Innovando supports tire manufacturers and the broader industrial sector by improving waste-collection services and developing digital and AI-based systems for monitoring and measuring CO₂ emissions throughout the entire process, among other technologies.

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– Let me give you an example from the tire industry, specifically our cooperation with Michelin. Together with Michelin and several other partners, we developed a system for tracking end-of-life tires, which we presented this year in Bologna. In addition to digital documentation, the tires are tracked physically using RFID tags and QR codes. It’s an experimental study that Michelin insisted on because they wanted to explore what future solutions could look like. Why is this important? Because once the materials are collected—tires in this case—they can be recycled. If the materials are properly separated, recycling becomes much easier – said Cveta Majtanović, Director of Sustainable Development at Innovando and Rubber Conversion.

– As Innovando, we invested in Rubber Conversion about ten years ago—we essentially founded the company. It is a patented technology for rubber devulcanization. The idea was to close the loop, to enable tire manufacturers to reuse this material in a truly circular way, without incineration, by returning it back into production – Majtanović added.

Romano Rosi, President of Confindustria Serbia, noted that over the past three years the organization has implemented an intensive program of workshops and conferences dedicated to ESG topics, investing time, expertise, and significant resources.

– It has been a challenging task, because the cultural shift required of companies is profound and doesn’t happen overnight. Still, our consistency and commitment are based on the belief that sustainability, innovation, and social responsibility are not merely regulatory requirements—they are key drivers of long-term competitiveness – Rosi said.

This conference marks the third annual edition of the joint ESG initiative organized by Confindustria Serbia and the Serbian Chamber of Commerce. Its purpose is to provide insight into the key trends shaping modern industrial development and to examine the challenges and opportunities related to innovation, technological progress, and ESG practices. These processes are increasingly influencing global supply chains and the long-term growth of companies.

Energy portal

Čačak to Get “Moravski Leaf” – a New Green Oasis and Modern City Park

Photo: JP „Gradac” Čačak

Čačak will soon gain a new 56.18-hectare park—a contemporary green oasis and recreational hub that will bring together nature, sports, culture, and community life. The urban design for the Moravski Leaf city park was prepared by the public company Gradac Čačak, and the park will be located on the right bank of the West Morava River, between the Mladost Sports Center and the Beljina water source.

According to the Gradac website, the concept envisions a multifunctional, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable public space that integrates recreation, relaxation, education, and the preservation of the natural riverfront landscape near the city center.

The design is inspired by the organic shape of a stylized leaf—a symbol of life and renewal—around which the main park avenue, river promenades, numerous walking and cycling paths, and a variety of thematic zones are organized.

The planned amenities are tailored to meet the needs of diverse users: children, young people, families, the elderly, persons with disabilities, recreational athletes, and nature lovers. This structure supports the principles of inclusivity, sustainability, and contemporary landscape architecture.

The new concept includes:

  • areas for leisure, recreation, and children’s play,
  • forest and landscaped zones, a lake, and water features,
  • spaces for cultural programs, exhibitions, and educational activities,
  • accessible areas for persons with disabilities,
  • sections designed for senior citizens,
  • viewpoints, elevated walkways, improved riverbanks, and other amenities.

The Moravski Leaf park is envisioned as a unique blend of urban life and natural surroundings, with the goal of improving residents’ quality of life, enhancing the city’s tourism potential, and contributing to the sustainable development of Čačak.

Energy portal

MT-KOMEX Building a Solar Power Plant in Novi Bečej

Photo: MT-KOMEX

The company MT-KOMEX continues to expand its network of solar projects across Serbia — this time in Novi Bečej, where construction has begun on the B4M Solutions solar power plant for the investor B2 Solar Masters d.o.o.

The power plant, located on an 8-hectare site, will have a total installed capacity of 6.7 MWp and a connection capacity of 5 MW, with an expected annual generation of 8,703.5 MWh. Currently, substructure installation is in progress, and project completion is scheduled for early next year.

This solar power plant, designed to deliver full electricity to the distribution system, represents another successful example of a project contributing to Serbia’s energy transition and decarbonization goals.

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Across the 8-hectare site, a total of 10,368 photovoltaic panels — each with a capacity of 650 Wp from the renowned manufacturer AIKO Solar — will be installed. Power conversion from DC to AC will be handled by 18 Huawei inverters, model SUN2000-330KTL-H1, each with a nominal capacity of 330 kW. The system will also include a 20/0.8 kV transformer station and a range of components ensuring safe and efficient plant operation.

Thanks to the favorable solar potential of the Novi Bečej municipality, where annual solar irradiation ranges between 1,400 and 1,500 kWh/m², the plant is expected to achieve excellent results in clean energy production.

The Novi Bečej project once again confirms MT-KOMEX’s dedication to developing sustainable energy solutions and supporting investors on their path toward energy independence and a greener future for Serbia.

Prepared by: Milena Maglovski

The story was published in Energy portal Magazine GREEN ARCHITECTURE

Accelerating the Electrification of Transport with Charge&GO

Photo: Charge&GO

C harge&GO remains committed to its mission — accelerating Serbia’s and the region’s transition to sustainable mobility through expanding its charging network and developing modern infrastructure. In October this year, a new 120 kW ultra-fast charger was commissioned at the Riva Shopping Center in Velika Plana, a highly frequented location situated near the highway.

“We are witnessing a constant increase in the number of electric vehicles traveling along this corridor, which undoubtedly deserves additional ultra-fast chargers,” said Tamara Zjačić, Deputy Director of Charge&GO.

According to her, plans for the coming year include the installation of at least 15 new ultra-fast DC chargers — with capacities of 120 kW, 150 kW, 180 kW, and 240 kW — across Serbia.

“Contracts have already been signed, the documentation is being prepared, and we expect construction works to begin within the next month to a month and a half,” Zjačić added.

IN FOCUS:

Fast Chargers in North Macedonia

The electric vehicle market in North Macedonia is still in its early stages, but shows a clear upward trend. Around 300 electric cars are currently registered in the country, while the number of publicly available chargers still does not exceed a few dozen—mostly slower AC devices. For this reason, the main challenge remains developing a fast and reliable charging infrastructure that enables drivers to travel more safely and conveniently.

An additional boost comes from the private sector, including companies such as Charge&GO, which are investing in the construction of a modern network of DC fast chargers.

“Since September, the first 50 kW charger in North Macedonia has been operational, installed at the Oktin gas station in Ržaničino. It is a public charger that users can activate via the Charge&GO mobile app—the same one used in Serbia,” explained Tamara Zjačić, Deputy Director of Charge&GO.

She added that users can, through the unified app, easily access chargers not only in Serbia and North Macedonia but also within the networks of partner operators across Europe.

By the beginning of next summer, Charge&GO plans to install at least seven additional 150 kW fast chargers along the main highways in North Macedonia.

“In the coming period, we will focus on expanding our network and promoting each new charger we put into operation. Our users will be regularly informed about all updates through the app and social media,” announced the Deputy Director of Charge&GO.

Prepared by: Milena Maglovski

The story was published in Energy portal Magazine GREEN ARCHITECTURE

Wind Farm “Kostolac” Enters Trial Operation

Photo: Zoran Gavrilović

Construction of the “Kostolac” wind farm has been successfully completed, and the facility has already delivered its first megawatt-hours to the grid. Following the issuance of the connection permit for the transmission system, voltage was energized in the substation and four feeder lines, after which the blades of Wind Turbine 1 began to turn. This officially marked the start of trial operation, Elektroprivreda Srbije (EPS) announced.

“This is a historic moment for EPS. In addition to electricity from water, coal, and solar, we now have the first energy from our own wind farm in Kostolac feeding into the grid. It is 66 megawatts of new capacity and a major step toward increasing the share of renewables and advancing the sustainable energy development not only of EPS, but of the entire Serbian energy sector,” said Dušan Živković, General Manager of EPS.

He emphasized that the Kostolac wind farm is only the beginning of EPS’s accelerated expansion of green generation capacities. The project is particularly significant because it was built on a former mining waste deposit site, giving the area a completely new and sustainable purpose.

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“The construction of the wind farm was both a major challenge and an extraordinary opportunity for experienced engineers and young professionals at EPS to work together and gain valuable knowledge for future projects,” Živković added.

Energization of the remaining wind turbines at the “Kostolac” wind farm is underway across the Drmno, Petka, Ćirikovac, and Klenovnik locations. The planned annual output is 187 million kilowatt-hours, enough to supply around 30,000 households with green electricity.

The project is financed through a €110 million loan from the German development bank KfW. In addition, the European Union provided €30 million in grants through the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF), while EPS secured the remaining funds.

Energetski portal

Green Construction in Bosnia and Herzegovina – Obstacles on the Path to Sustainability

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (hamlinjandrew)

The Green Building Council – Green Council BiH association brings together experts from various fields to promote best practices in sustainable and responsible construction through an interdisciplinary approach. They have produced a substantial number of scientific and professional publications, as well as workshops, lectures, conferences, and advocacy initiatives. The organization pays special attention to young people through the organization of summer schools and practical workshops that help raise awareness about the importance of sustainable development. The association has received the highest award, the EU New European Bauhaus, for the best European project in the field of sustainable construction and development. With a partnership agreement signed with the German Sustainable Building Council (DGNB), they plan to continue their certification projects and promote sustainable and responsible building even more actively and conscientiously. We spoke with Sanela Klarić, an advisor to the Association, about their educational programmes and green certification processes.

Q: What are the biggest obstacles in the process of green building certification?

A: Our experience shows that the greatest obstacles in the process of green building certification primarily stem from a lack of awareness about the advantages of this approach. Citizens, designers, construction companies, and investors are still not sufficiently familiar with the benefits of green certification, which often leads to a lack of support from the outset. Another challenge lies in the absence of clear strategies and legal frameworks that would systemically support such processes, as well as in the lack of completed examples within the country and the region that could serve as models and demonstrate that these projects can be both successful and cost-effective. Furthermore, professional capacities – from designers and contractors to certifiers – are still underdeveloped, which hinders the wider adoption and effective implementation of green certification standards.

IN FOCUS:

Q: How does green housing certification work in practice?

A: Green building certification involves the engagement of a qualified, accredited certifier from the very beginning of the planning and development stage. Their role is not merely formal but also advisory and educational: they guide the design team, investors, and contractors throughout the entire process, from the initial concept to final completion. The certifier helps maximize the site’s potential, introduces principles of sustainable resource management, advises on responsible site management and waste handling, and monitors the life-cycle assessment of materials, components, and the building itself. Particular attention is given to the efficient use of water and renewable energy sources, the use of natural and locally sourced materials, as well as compliance with health standards that include testing water and indoor air quality, and verifying the effectiveness of energy efficiency measures. Safety standards, such as fire protection and inclusive access to buildings, are also an integral part of the process.

Unlike traditional construction methods, green certification is more complex and demands greater responsibility, interdisciplinary collaboration, and continuous monitoring. Nevertheless, the benefits it brings far outweigh the initial effort. The result is higher-quality buildings designed with both people and the environment in mind, offering greater comfort, protecting users’ health, reducing negative environmental impacts, and saving energy, water, and other resources in the long term. Such buildings represent an investment not only in a sustainable future but also in the safety and quality of life of present and future generations.

Q: Do you have data on reduced energy consumption or emissions for the projects you have supported?

A: For buildings currently in the pre-certification and certification phase, data must be collected over twelve months, after which the results can be verified and officially presented. Alongside this, user education is being conducted to encourage responsible behavior and the implementation of green certification measures in daily life. Even now, although the process is still ongoing, significant savings and increased user satisfaction are clearly noticeable. However, until the data collection period is completed, these results cannot be officially confirmed or shared with the public. The experience of our colleagues from the DGNB (German Sustainable Building Council), with whom we have signed a partnership agreement, further encourages us, as their professional insights provide important validation of our findings and demonstrate that we are moving in the right direction.

Interview by Jasna Dragojević

The interview was published in Energy portal Magazine GREEN ARCHITECTURE

Conference: “Future-Proof Industry: Innovations, Partnerships, and Sustainable Growth”

Photo: Confindustria Serbia

On Monday, December 1, 2025, at the Serbian Chamber of Commerce, Resavska 13–15, Belgrade, starting at 9:30 AM (registration from 9:00 AM),  the conference FUTURE-PROOF INDUSTRY: Innovations, Partnerships, and Sustainable Growth will be held.

This is the THIRD EDITION of the now-traditional ESG conference organized by Confindustria Serbia in partnership with the Serbian Chamber of Commerce, where, through three panels, we will discuss with business leaders and innovators how innovations, strategic partnerships, and advanced technologies are transforming sustainability and building a resilient, human-centered industry.

Why participate?

• Gain direct insights into how innovations are driving industrial transformation and helping companies adapt to global sustainability challenges.
• Learn how ESG practices and innovative approaches can enhance competitiveness.
• Discover how artificial intelligence and digital technologies are shaping climate action, transparency, and supply chain resilience.
• Connect with business leaders, decision-makers, and innovators from Serbia, Italy, and beyond.

During the conference, a Memorandum of Understanding will be signed between Confindustria Serbia, the Serbian Chamber of Commerce, and the Italian company Innovando. The Memorandum aims to create an ecosystem enabling the implementation of EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) in the tire sector.

The working languages of the conference will be Serbian and English, with simultaneous interpretation provided.

Conference agenda is available HERE.

The conference is organized by Confindustria Serbia, in partnership with the Serbian Chamber of Commerce, with support of: EIT Manufacturing, Istrabenz Plini, Banka Intesa, Deloitte, UniCredit Bank Serbia, DDOR Osiguranje, and Enterprise Europe Network.

Register here and be part of a dialogue that is changing how companies manage ESG requirements, supply chains, and long-term development.

Energy portal

The Largest Solar Power Plant Built on Degraded Land Commissioned in Romania

Photo-illustration: Unsplash ( Mariana Proença)

Romanian company Simtel has commissioned a 52 MWp photovoltaic park in Giurgiu County, which Romanian media describe as the largest solar power plant in the country built through ecological reconstruction on a former industrial ash dump. The plant is expected to generate around 70–73 GWh of electricity annually, depending on all influencing factors.

The project was fully developed by the company – from land acquisition to commissioning – and implemented across more than 80 hectares of previously degraded terrain, which also included an artificial lake. More than 85,000 panels have been installed, connected to the grid via six transformer stations and a new high-voltage substation.

The electricity will be supplied under a 10-year PPA agreement with G-Energy Solutions, a company majority-owned by Simtel. Romanian media note that the project was financed through a combination of bank loans and grants from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR).

Simtel is currently developing several other solar facilities in Romania, and according to publicly available information, the company’s total portfolio includes more than 150 MWp in various stages of development.

Energy portal

National Park Cities – A Vision Of Healthier And Greener Urban Environments

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Simon Hurry)

In modern cities, it is somewhat utopian to expect complete harmony with nature. Urban and social life have distanced people from their cultural heritage, while nature in many areas has been depleted and now requires support to regain its balance. In an era of health, climate, and environmental challenges, the concept of National Park Cities (NPC) offers a vision of urban environments that are greener and healthier. Although they are not traditional national parks, these cities draw inspiration from their values and guiding principles.

The Origin of the National Park City Concept

The idea of the National Park City was first proposed in 2013 by Daniel Raven-Ellison, a geographer and National Geographic explorer. After visiting several national parks across the United Kingdom, Raven-Ellison began to imagine how London could be transformed into a city that functions as a national park. He launched an initiative called the National Park City Foundation, which was formally registered in 2017 as an independent charitable organization funded through grants and donations. Through this initiative, London enhanced its green spaces, protected local plant and animal species, and encouraged citizens to participate in preserving nature and cultural heritage. Particular attention was given to promoting sustainable mobility, such as walking and cycling, as well as educating communities about the importance of green areas. After several years of campaigning led by Raven-Ellison and supported by collaborators, London was officially declared the world’s first National Park City in 2019.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Frans Koning)

This success served as an inspiration for a broader initiative. The experience of experts from more than 50 countries contributed to shaping the Universal Charter for National Park Cities, which emphasizes improving human health and wellbeing, preserving biodiversity, protecting habitats and public spaces, encouraging outdoor life, culture, art, play, walking, and cycling, as well as supporting local food production and responsible consumption. It particularly highlights the importance of shared decision-making, learning, and acting in harmony with nature and human relationships.

The National Park City Foundation Today

Today, the Foundation provides support, coordinates the global vision, launches campaigns, establishes partnerships, and offers advisory services to cities. The National Park City model functions from the bottom up — driven by citizens, organizations, and local authorities who wish to make their city greener, healthier, and fairer. A city begins its candidacy by signing the charter, developing its vision and plan, and demonstrating broad community support.

The Foundation then provides guidance and mentorship, and after evaluating the city’s activities, grants official status. Once recognized, the city becomes part of the global National Park Cities network and is obliged to continuously improve the quality of life and strengthen the connection between people and nature. The Foundation has set a goal for at least 25 cities to gain National Park City status by 2025. Although this goal has not yet been fully achieved, in addition to London, three other cities have received this status, with several more currently in the application process.

IN FOCUS:

Examples of National Park Cities

Adelaide was declared a National Park City in December 2021 — the first in Australia and the entire Southern Hemisphere, and the second in the world to receive this recognition. The whole process was initiated and led by Green Adelaide, the organization responsible for managing the natural environment of the metropolitan area. Over the next three years, the city worked on improving urban greenery and biodiversity protection, including: strengthening tree protection and designing green spaces through the Urban Greening Strategy; preserving and gradually phasing out single-use plastics; and restoring coastal habitats. The Government of South Australia has also developed new Biodiversity Legislation to protect local species and ecosystems better, and established the First Nations Voice in Parliament to ensure that Indigenous communities have direct participation in decision-making.

Breda became the first National Park City in the European Union in 2025. The city aims to become an “urban area within a natural park,” with the active participation of its citizens. It has set the goal of becoming one of Europe’s greenest cities by 2030, supported by municipal urban planning policies. Breda has long been developing greening projects — about 60 percent of its area consists of green spaces, small forests, walking and cycling paths, canals, and community food production initiatives. One successful example is the Green Quays project, which revitalizes the River Mark and transforms its banks into green spaces, reintroducing nature to the city’s medieval core. Breda also strives for CO2 neutrality by 2044, supporting citizens through subsidies for green roofs, façades, rainwater systems, and courtyard greening.

Chattanooga became the first National Park City in North America in 2025, setting seven key goals: facilitating access to nature, promoting outdoor activities, protecting and educating about the environment, fostering inclusive and sustainable development, strengthening community and culture, supporting local food and agriculture, and advancing art and creativity. Over the years, the city has transformed from an industrial center into a place deeply connected with nature, through active citizen engagement and strong local government support.

Biodiversity preservation and the enhancement of urban greenery are evident in projects such as the restoration of Montague Park and River, clean water initiatives, and animal conservation programs at the Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute and the Hellbender Research Lab at the local zoo. This success is rooted in collaboration among diverse stakeholders. In addition to these cities that have already achieved National Park City status, several others — including Rotterdam, Cardiff, and Glasgow — have been nominated and are currently in the process of applying for this designation.

Prepared by: Katarina Vuinac

The story was published in Energy portal Magazine GREEN ARCHITECTURE

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