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International Conference on Droughts Focused on Increasing Global Resilience

Photo-illustration: Pixabay

A major international conference titled “Drought Resilience +10” will be held at the headquarters of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in Geneva from September 30 to October 2, marking a decade since the first meeting on national drought policies. This conference aims to further strengthen efforts for prevention, preparedness, and adaptation to this growing threat, according to the WMO statement.

The conference will bring together numerous experts, policymakers, and practitioners from around the world to analyze the progress made over the past ten years, while also exploring new ways to apply knowledge in creating practical solutions to help countries become more drought-resilient.

“Drought is one of the most dangerous and insidious climate threats, often overlooked until it’s too late. Its effects can be devastating, not only for people and the environment but also for the economies of many countries,” said Celeste Saulo, WMO Secretary-General.

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The conference will focus on exploring new approaches that will help shift from reactive to proactive methods, using climate services such as seasonal forecasts and innovative financial mechanisms. Case studies highlighting local community actions will be presented, and there will be discussions on scientific progress, including the use of satellite technologies and artificial intelligence for more precise drought monitoring.

Droughts have existed as a natural consequence of climate variability, but climate change is intensifying this issue, bringing more extreme weather events, including heavier rainfall, floods, and prolonged droughts in different parts of the world.

“Healthy lands are the foundation of healthy economies. Our future in the fight against climate change depends on our ability to properly manage land and natural resources,” emphasized Andrea Meza, Deputy Executive Secretary of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), announcing the upcoming COP16 conference on desertification, which will take place in Riyadh.

The essence of this international gathering is to exchange experiences and accelerate the implementation of policies that will help reduce the risks and impacts of drought, which increasingly affects the most vulnerable communities around the world.

Energetski portal

What is the fate of the Bajdina forest in Belgrade?

Foto-Ilustracija: Pixabay (rasevicm)

In the Belgrade neighborhood of Mirijevo, the third session of the City of Belgrade’s Planning Commission was held a few days ago, where the fate of the spontaneous Bajdina forest was discussed.

Previous discussions were interrupted due to clashes between two opposing sides, while the recent meeting was more peaceful but ended without a concrete solution.

On one side, landowners want to build a residential and commercial complex, while on the other side, residents want the forest to remain and be arranged as a park. According to local media reports, the atmosphere at the session was tense, but it calmed down after the landowners left the meeting.

A representative of the landowners, Tomislav Petrović, argued that not the entire forest would be cut down and that the area is currently neglected and full of debris and waste. He also dismissed claims that the area is a landslide risk, citing conducted geological surveys, according to Beta Green Serbia.

The landowners advocate for cutting down 66 hectares of spontaneous forest and building a residential-commercial complex for about 15,000 people.

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On the other hand, a representative of the residents, Nikola Cvetanović from the association “Mirijevo, Green and Healthy,” said that building the complex would be “cruel” to the citizens. He called the forest the “lungs of Mirijevo” and emphasized that, although it was not officially designated as a green area, it practically is and should remain so.

Residents have gathered 2,300 signatures against the construction plan, fearing that its realization would destroy the forest, create traffic congestion, and cause other issues in the neighborhood. Cvetanović called on the authorities to reject the plan and support the residents.

The city’s chief urban planner, Marko Stojčić, announced that a decision on the future of the forest would be made after consultations with all relevant institutions.

“We will not decide yet on these objections, which means we will not rule in favor of the citizens who oppose the construction, nor those in favor of it, until the city takes a final stance on this area,” said Marko Stojčić, the city urban planner, as reported by Nova.

Energetski portal

INECP – Serbia on the Path to Sustainability

Photo-illustration: unsplash (neon-joi)
Photo: Courtesy of Veljko Kovačević

The Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan (INECP) of the Republic of Serbia is a key strategic document that defines ambitious yet achievable goals for the country’s energy transition. This plan is designed to guide Serbia toward a sustainable energy future, significantly increasing the share of renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Achieving the goals set out in the INECP should contribute to greater energy security, environmental protection, the modernization of the energy sector, and the improvement of the quality of life for citizens. Veljko Kovačević, PhD, State Secretary at the Ministry of Mining and Energy, speaks about the Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan for Energy Portal Magazine.

Q: What does the Draft Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan of the Republic of Serbia for the period up to 2030, with projections until 2050, bring?

A: The Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan is a key strategic document that defines the strategic goals and the timeline for their achievement in the energy transition process. We have set ambitious yet achievable goals whereby almost every other megawatt-hour of electricity will be green, the share of renewable energy sources (RES) in final energy consumption will reach 33.6 percent, and in electricity production, it will exceed 45 percent. Greenhouse gas emissions will be reduced by 40.3 percent compared to 1990, and the integration of the electricity market with the EU’s single market will be completed. One of the most important messages that INECP sends to the public is that we have conducted a detailed analysis of the baseline electricity production diagram and that all projections defined through the Stability and Stability-Progress scenarios have been made to ensure that the Republic of Serbia always has enough base energy, which is the only guarantee of the country’s energy security. Additionally, we will improve energy efficiency through building renovations and implementing policies in industry and transport, encourage electromobility, and increase the use of renewable energy sources in heating, cooling, and electricity production, as well as advanced biofuels.

Q: Energy efficiency is a special segment of the INECP. What is planned in this regard, and what national goals have been set accordingly?

In Serbia, three and a half times more energy is consumed in producing the same unit of GDP compared to the European average, which is why the Government and the relevant ministry have defined energy efficiency as one of the priorities within the INECP and the “Leap into the Future – Serbia 2027” plan. The INECP defines a limitation on final energy consumption to a level not exceeding 9.7 Mtoe by 2030. The same trend is observed in primary energy consumption, which is expected to be less than 14.68 Mtoe by 2030. The state is currently investing unprecedented funds to improve energy efficiency. In the past three years, more than 30,000 households received state subsidies for implementing energy efficiency measures. By the end of 2027, we will support over 70,000 households in replacing windows, improving insulation and facades, replacing inefficient boilers, and installing solar collectors or panels for generating electricity for personal use. In cooperation with the World Bank, we secured $50 million for household subsidies, which can cover up to 65 percent of the value of energy renovation measures, while socially vulnerable groups receive grants covering 90 percent of the costs.

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Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Rade-Dr)

In addition to household energy renovation, we are implementing the Public ESCO Project in collaboration with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), valued at 64.5 million euros, which focuses on the energy renovation of residential buildings connected to district heating systems and the transition to consumption-based billing in 14 cities and municipalities. It is estimated that more than 500 residential buildings, covering an area of about one million square meters, will be renovated as part of the project. Grants will cover the costs of preparing energy efficiency reports and relevant studies, as well as 50 percent of the investment value, while citizens will repay their share of the investment through their heating bills.

The Ministry of Mining and Energy is investing significant funds in improving energy efficiency in public buildings across Serbia. This year, we allocated 800 million dinars in the budget for these purposes, twice as much as in 2023. We signed contracts with 41 local government units to conduct energy renovations of kindergartens and preschool institutions, elementary and high schools, faculties, libraries, cultural centers, healthcare institutions, and municipal administration buildings. By completing the energy renovations, we will save about 9,000 MWh of thermal and electric energy annually while reducing carbon dioxide emissions, which will amount to about 5,500 tons per year. In renovated buildings, energy consumption will decrease by 20 percent to 50 percent.

We are also paying great attention to the energy renovation of central government buildings. We have secured funds for the energy renovation of 26 out of 56 buildings, including the Palace of Serbia, and these works should be completed by 2027, when the specialized EXPO exhibition will be held.

What does INECP bring when it comes to renewable energy sources?

With the adoption of the Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan, Serbia has gained a strategic document aligned with Europe’s vision of decarbonizing the energy sector, thus representing Serbia’s “roadmap” for energy transition. This plan is tailored to the characteristics of our energy sector and the imperative that, at all times, our citizens and economy can rely on a secure supply.

The Integrated Plan emphasizes investments in renewable energy sources. About 3.5 gigawatts of new solar and wind power plants are expected to be connected to the grid by 2030, meaning that almost every other megawatt-hour of electricity produced will be sourced from clean energy.

Interview by Milica Radičević

Read the whole interview in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine ENERGY TRANSITION

International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste 2024 – A Call to Action for People and the Planet

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Elevate)

As global hunger rates continue to rise, the issue of food loss and waste becomes more urgent than ever. In 2024, the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste serves as an important reminder of the critical need to address this challenge, emphasizing the importance of funding measures to reduce food waste.

Food waste not only jeopardizes global food security but also plays a significant role in undermining the sustainability of our food systems, contributing to environmental degradation and climate change, according to the United Nations.

Recent estimates suggest that around 13.2 percent of produced food is lost between harvest and sale. Additionally, about 19 percent of the world’s total food production is wasted at the household, hospitality, and retail levels. This means that every day, tons of edible food are lost or thrown away while millions of people go hungry—an obvious contradiction that points to inefficiencies in current food systems.

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The consequences of food loss and waste extend far beyond the discarded food itself. When food is wasted, all the resources invested in its production—such as water, land, energy, labor, and capital—are also squandered. This not only undermines the sustainability of agricultural systems but also exacerbates environmental problems. Food waste in landfills generates greenhouse gas emissions, significantly contributing to climate change.

“People are clearing forests and draining wetlands to obtain more arable land and produce even more food, while forests and wetlands are the largest absorbers of carbon dioxide. Consequently, we have less clean air. Cleared lands are further treated with substances to boost yields, which further pollutes both soil and water. The energy expenditure in food processing and consumption is immense, and at the end of it all, we throw away 40 percent of food. That’s why it’s important not to waste food,” says Aleksandra Ugarković from the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF Adria) for Energetski portal.

She adds that WWF was one of the first organizations to participate in the “Shared Fridge” concept, whose idea was for anyone to leave food in refrigerators placed in public locations for those who need it the most. As for food banks, it’s a much broader concept, and WWF supports any initiative that can lead to the sustainability of such projects, our interlocutor notes.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Dan Gold)

“When it comes to food banks, the core issue lies in regulations that prevent many organizations and companies from easily and quickly donating food and groceries. Put simply, it is more expensive to donate food than to throw it away. We sincerely believe that positive changes will occur soon. If, for example, taxes on food donations were reduced, food waste could be significantly minimized,” says Ugarković.

The United Nations emphasizes that reducing food loss and waste requires both global and local action. Adopting innovative technologies and solutions, such as surplus food marketing platforms, mobile food processing machines, and better food quality management practices, can help minimize waste.

The urgency of addressing food loss and waste is further underscored by the approaching deadline to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, particularly Goal 12.3, which aims to halve global food waste per capita at the retail and consumer levels and reduce food losses along production and supply chains.

It is crucial to ensure that the food we produce reaches those who need it most, while also preserving the planet’s resources. This International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste 2024 calls on everyone—governments, businesses, and individuals—to take immediate action and contribute to a more sustainable future for people and the planet.

Milena Maglovski

Where Have the Falcons Gone?

Photo: Courtesy of Perica Miletić

The sky above Serbia has always been adorned with a multitude of birds of prey, and one of them – the Eastern Imperial Eagle- has a special place on our country’s official coat of arms. Throughout history, falcons have enjoyed the same respect because, as faithful companions of the nobility in hunting, they have become part of the national emblem.

Emperor Dušan often hunted with peregrine falcons, and in the Middle Ages, Serbia was one of the most important countries in Europe as far as falconry was concerned. Unfortunately, these birds of prey have lost their popularity today, and devastating news about poisoned birds destroyed nests and poaching is becoming more frequent. The extermination of birds of prey in certain locations has resulted in a dramatic disruption of the ecosystem because birds of prey hunt rodents, reptiles, and other birds and thus keep their population under control.

That is why numerous animal protection associations are using all available resources to ensure that birds of prey are not wiped out of Serbia’s biodiversity. Fortunately, there are also people who, because of their love for feathered raptors, have chosen an unusual profession and are ready to contribute to protecting these species.

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Perica Miletić from Kraljevo is one of the few falconers in Serbia. His interest in falconry developed in high school. Today, he says, only very few people are engaged in falconry and those who keep birds of prey mostly take care of them for fun and as a hobby. Falcons are often bought on the black market, and smugglers usually catch them illegally in the wild, although many captured birds are endangered. Raising falconry to a higher level and complying with all animal welfare criteria requires a lot of effort. Although every bird enjoys royal treatment in Mr Miletić’s kennel, he does have a favorite bird.

“My favorite raptor is the Gyrfalcon. It is the largest and most beautiful falcon in the world. It lives in the polar regions of Russia, Alaska, northern parts of Scandinavia and Canada. It tolerates very low temperatures well and is the only predator in the north all year round. This falcon has four morphoses – black, grey, silver and white, of which the white one is the most beautiful. Also, white falcons are the most valued in the world”, explains Mr Miletić.

Photo: Courtesy of Perica Miletić

He says that buyers from developed Arab countries are very interested in falcons bred in Serbia, where, unlike our country, numerous competitions in flight speed and appearance are held. However, true falconers, in addition to raising birds, often contribute to the care and treatment of many endangered and injured animals. Mr Miletić, as a great bird lover, builds houses for smaller birds every winter and feeds them, and several times, he had the opportunity to save some.

In our country, many feathered raptors are considered endangered species and the saker falcon and peregrine falcons are at the very top.

The peregrine falcon lives in mountainous regions of our country, such as Tara, Kopaonik, Stara Planina, and Suva Planina. It nests on high cliffs in canyons and gorges and feeds exclusively on birds. According to official data, the main threats to peregrine falcons are habitat destruction, poaching, pesticide poisoning, and a reduction in the number of prey species. However, Mr Miletić notes that pigeon fanciers often destroy falcon nests and use various poisons to suppress the falcon population.

Prepared by: Milena Maglovski

Read the whole story in the new issue the Energy portal Magazine AGROSOLAR ENERGY AND RES.

SEE ENERGY 2024 – Business Energy Conference with Panel Discussions and Workshops

The SEE ENERGY 2024 conference which has become a gathering place for domestic and regional experts in the field of sustainable energy, will be held on October 23 and 24 at the Master Center in Novi Sad.

SEE ENERGY 2024 brings together industry experts, government representatives, investors, and innovative companies with the goal of exchanging knowledge, discussing the latest trends and technologies in energy, and providing networking opportunities.

Key topics of the two-day program:

October 23, 2024

  1. The potential of Serbia’s energy stability through the use of waste, biomass, and circular economy
  2. ESCO financing – Innovative solutions for improving energy efficiency
  3. Sustainable business through industrial decarbonization – Investments, implementation, and CBAM challenges
  4. Workshop: CO2 Measurement – Preparation of CBAM reports

October 24, 2024

  1. ESG principles in energy transition – Innovations, challenges, and opportunities
  2. Technologies and raw materials for industrial competitiveness and process optimization – Solar and nuclear energy, biomass, and green hydrogen
  3. The future of road infrastructure: Green energy and battery technology
  4. Grid connection and energy storage – Batteries as a key component

The conference offers a unique opportunity for discussions on challenges, opportunities, and solutions shaping the future of the energy sector, with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and industrial process optimization.

The target audience for the conference includes energy professionals, investors, financial institutions, government and local representatives, as well as companies seeking solutions for sustainable development and business optimization.

For more information about the conference and registration details, please visit here.

Source: National Biomass Association “SERBIO”

OIE Serbia 2024 – The Future Lies in Renewable Energy

Photo-illustration: Freepik (rawpixel.com)

On the second day of the OIE Serbia 2024 conference, several panels were held, the first of which was titled Challenges in Financing and Insuring Renewable Energy Projects.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Thomas Richter)

During the panel discussion, experts, including bankers and lawyers, discussed the financial frameworks and legal structures shaping renewable energy projects. It was emphasized that banking support is essential, covering up to 50 percent of project capital through special loans that are predominantly non-recourse, meaning banks have limited claims, ensuring that financial risks align with the success of the project. The discussion also touched on broader aspects of the energy industry, such as electricity price volatility and the impact of macroeconomic factors on the renewable energy sector. Despite the challenges, the industry’s positive outlook is supported by government regulations and strategic investments, aiming to increase Serbia’s renewable energy production to 45 percent by 2030. The conversation also addressed the sector’s potential and the challenges it faces, such as the gap between current capacities and future goals, the importance of rapidly implementing these capacities, project profitability, and the technical and regulatory challenges of adapting the grid for higher renewable energy capacities. The role of Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) in facilitating investments was particularly highlighted, as well as the evolution of these agreements and their significance in the EU context, all pointing to a dynamic sector ready for substantial growth with efficient collaboration between the government, financial institutions, and energy companies.

The following panel focused on ESG principles and sustainable development in transportation.

One of the panelists was Aleksandra Đurđević, Vice President of Delta Holding, who spoke about the historical overview of the introduction and development of electric vehicles (EVs) in Serbia, highlighting the crucial role of Delta Auto Group, which imported the first electric car into the country 7-8 years ago. She emphasized the initial integration of models under the “Born Electric” concept. She also addressed financial incentives for EV adoption, including subsidies of €5,000 for electric cars and €2,000 for hybrids, which should reflect a broader strategy of integrating hybrid vehicles as a logical step towards fully electric vehicles, given the current state of infrastructure. The removal of subsidies for hybrid vehicles and the provision of subsidies exclusively for electric vehicles is automatically slowing the transition to them, which is why efforts are being made to keep hybrids included during the transitional period towards e-mobility.

What was particularly interesting in the presentation was the multi-brand location project covering 17,000 square meters in New Belgrade, which stands out for its environmental awareness and commitment to material recycling. Although a much more expensive, slower, and complicated process, three existing buildings will be recycled, not demolished. 75 percent of materials such as metal, steel, and glass will be recycled, saving about 150 metric tons of CO2. As vehicles are washed daily at the service center, the water purification process will enable the reuse of about 200 out of 300 liters of water per vehicle wash, significantly contributing to sustainability. Solar panels will produce 130,000 kWh of electricity annually, meeting a large portion of the location’s energy needs. She emphasized that the implementation of ten electric vehicle chargers and façade lighting will further increase the facility’s energy efficiency, making it one of the greenest BMW facilities in Europe. The application of all environmental standards demonstrates how the automotive industry can actively contribute to sustainability, setting high standards in the auto industry and showcasing the successful implementation of ambitious environmental projects at the local level with the support of global partners.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (CHUTTERSNAP)

As we have already written extensively about the third panel, which focused on solar energy, it remains to mention the final panel held that day, which covered Energy Storage/Grid Connection/Electricity Market.

During the panel on energy storage and the electricity market, the focus was on upcoming legislative changes, particularly updates to energy laws and regulations. These changes are expected to significantly liberalize the market and allow for the benefits of ongoing large-scale projects, aimed at aligning with European Commission directives. Emphasis was placed on the transition to renewable energy sources and the gradual phasing out of CO2-emitting vehicles by 2035, illustrating a proactive approach in the energy sector that aligns with global strategic shifts towards more sustainable and eco-friendly practices.

The discussion also highlighted the importance of adapting markets and regulatory frameworks to effectively support these transitions, with expectations that legislative and policy reforms, particularly regarding energy standards and market integration, will provide a more flexible and open market environment. This includes anticipation of regulatory adjustments that will improve business practices and align them with European standards, with the hope that these changes will further boost market liquidity and create clearer contractual environments by 2026.

Energy Portal

From Azerbaijan, One Million Cubic Meters of Gas Per Day During This Winter

Photo-illustration: Freepik (fanjianhua)

The Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of green energy between the Ministry of Mining and Energy of Serbia and the Ministry of Energy of Azerbaijan was signed during a bilateral meeting, along with two gas supply agreements between “Srbijagas” and the Azerbaijani company “Socar.”

Dubravka Đedović Handanović, Serbia’s Minister of Mining and Energy, stated that during the upcoming winter, Serbia will be able to rely on secure deliveries of around one million cubic meters of gas from Azerbaijan from November 1 to March 31, which will enhance the country’s energy security.

She recalled that agreements on cooperation between the respective ministries and gas companies were signed last year in Baku, stipulating that Serbia will receive up to 400 million cubic meters of gas annually from Azerbaijan until 2026, with the possibility of increasing these amounts to one billion cubic meters thereafter.

The Minister emphasized that the Memorandum expanded cooperation in energy to the field of green energy.

“This document opens up broad opportunities for collaboration in the energy transition process, including joint investments in green energy, the implementation of new green technologies, carbon capture and storage technologies, e-mobility, energy storage, and other areas. In this way, cooperation between Serbia and Azerbaijan in the energy sector is becoming comprehensive and strategic, significantly enhancing our bilateral relations,” the Minister said.

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One of the topics at the bilateral meeting was also the Green Energy Corridor that will connect Azerbaijan with Central and Eastern European countries.

Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik)

“In this project, Serbia could potentially play an important role, primarily due to its geographical position, as we plan to strengthen interconnections on the transmission network with Romania, Hungary, and Bulgaria in the coming years, and with the completion of the Trans-Balkan Corridor, we will enhance transmission capacities towards Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and indirectly towards Italy,” the Minister explained.

Parviz Shahbazov, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Energy, said that in recent months and years, cooperation between the two countries in the energy sector has significantly advanced, emphasizing that the signed documents enable further increases in gas deliveries from Azerbaijan, as well as expanding cooperation in the field of energy transition.

“We also discussed the possibility of Serbia becoming part of the Green Corridor between the Caspian region and Southeastern Europe, given that Serbia already borders three countries participating in the project and can play a role as both a user and a transit country,” Shahbazov stated.

The meeting also covered the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference (COP29), which will be held in Azerbaijan in November, where numerous initiatives important for the global energy transition will be launched.

Energy portal

How Far Have We Crossed Planetary Boundaries?

Photo-illustration: Freepik (user6702303)

For thousands of years, during a period of climate stability and resilience of the Earth’s system, humanity has been able to advance in technological and cultural development. A report published by scientists from the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK), which deals with the health of planet Earth, has shown that we have entered a new era. This period is marked by increasingly evident symptoms of exceeding the Planetary Boundaries, which include more frequent extreme weather events, wildfires, reduced plant productivity, and water shortages. These problems are further exacerbated by the growth of the global population.

Planetary Boundaries represent a scientific framework that defines safe limits within which human activities can occur without significant consequences for the stability of the Earth’s system. If they are crossed, it leads to the potential destabilization of ecosystems and all life conditions. There are nine Planetary Boundaries, including climate change, biosphere integrity, land-system change, freshwater use, biochemical flows, introduction of novel entities, ocean acidification, atmospheric aerosol loading, and stratospheric ozone depletion.

The report shows that six out of the nine Planetary Boundary processes have crossed safe levels. These processes include climate change, biosphere integrity, land-system change, freshwater use, biochemical flows, and the introduction of novel entities. As stated, these levels show alarming trends.

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Photo-illustration: Freepik (jcomp)

When it comes to climate change, CO2 levels in the atmosphere are at their highest in the last 15 million years, while the average global temperature is higher than ever before in human history, with an accelerated warming trend since the late 20th century. The integrity of the biosphere has also been severely compromised, with the accelerated loss of genetic diversity and functional integrity of ecosystems. The loss of the biosphere threatens the planet’s resilience to other ecological pressures, including climate change and land degradation, the report states. In the context of land-system change, there is a continued decline in forest areas, while many regions are already far beyond safe levels. Changes in freshwater systems, such as rivers and lakes, have led to increased instability in the quantity of water flowing through these systems and in soil moisture. Water resource management is becoming increasingly difficult due to growing uncertainty in water availability. Biogeochemical flows, particularly the use of phosphorus and nitrogen in agriculture, are causing serious ecological problems, including water pollution and the emergence of so-called dead zones in seas and lakes. When it comes to the introduction of novel entities, such as synthetic chemicals and plastics, there is still insufficient research. However, it is believed that many of these substances cause permanent harmful changes in the environment, including soil and water contamination.

The remaining three processes are still within safe operating boundaries. However, ocean acidification is close to a critical threshold, while atmospheric aerosol loading shows progress toward safer levels. The degradation of the ozone layer has slowed down, but the report notes that concerns remain about the persistent challenges in ozone recovery, especially over Antarctica.

Energy portal

A Beacon on the Path to Energy Transition

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Thomas)

Recently, during a family gathering, a curious aunt didn’t miss the chance to ask me what I do for a living. As I began listing a multitude of interesting topics I cover, a good portion of my explanation revolved around renewable energy sources.

That’s when I realized how fascinated I am by the fact that I’m witnessing a global shift away from polluting fossil fuels toward renewable energy sources, which protect the environment and provide energy security.

Unfortunately, energy transition in Serbia and the region poses a significant challenge that requires engagement at all levels of society. We face numerous economic, administrative, and technical obstacles that slow down its pace. However, it is clear that despite these challenges, we must intensify our efforts to green the energy sector in order to protect the environment and align with European Union directives.

In Serbia, the capacity of renewable energy sources nearly doubled in 2023 compared to 2022. While this represents a significant achievement, it is not enough if we aim to reduce air pollution and achieve energy security. As the upcoming heating season approaches, when air pollution becomes a dominant environmental issue, it becomes even clearer that investing in renewable energy is not only key to the country’s sustainable development but also our moral obligation.

On this complex and uncharted path of energy transition, it is crucial who we have as companions. Prominent companies in the renewable energy sector, with their technical expertise, innovative solutions, and dedication, represent reliable partners in the mission to transition to green energy.

Just as a lighthouse helps ships safely navigate to harbor, these companies enable investors to achieve their goals in the renewable energy sector with a clear plan and support.

I have researched leading companies in our region that stand out for their expertise and achievements, and one name in particular caught my attention.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (moritz-lange)

MT-KOMEX, a company that has been operating for over three decades, has become a leader in building solar power plants in Serbia and the region. Thanks to its many years of experience, MT-KOMEX consistently finds optimal solutions that not only meet investors’ desires but also ensure top-tier performance for solar power plants. Their expertise and commitment allow clients to access solutions tailored to the specific demands of each project, ensuring long-term reliability and efficiency in utilizing solar energy.

For investors, security and trust are paramount, and having a reliable partner means reducing risks and optimizing results. Companies from this sector provide not only technical support but also a vision, helping to turn ideas about cleaner energy into successfully realized projects.

MT-KOMEX’s well-coordinated team is always ready to respond to client needs and build a solar power plant in record time. This dedicated group of engineers, installers, and other certified experts has constructed over 200 solar power plants that are already generating green kilowatts, much to the satisfaction of clients who have placed their trust in them.

Each project, whether it involves building a solar power plant on a rooftop, a production facility, or on land, is approached with great care by MT-KOMEX, allowing investors to eagerly await the moment when they will receive the “key” to their solar power plant.

It is clear that energy transition poses great challenges for our country, and every additional green kilowatt in the domestic energy mix is of great importance. Fortunately, through the knowledge and innovations of distinguished scientists and experts, as well as the actions of qualified companies, Serbia has the opportunity to successfully face this challenge and step into a sustainable future.

Milena Maglovski

US Auto Companies Will Receive Aid for Transition to Electric Vehicles

Photo-illustration: Pixabay

The United States is preparing to assist its auto suppliers in adapting to the transition from gasoline-powered vehicles to electric vehicles. With this goal, the White House has announced the creation of a fund worth up to one billion dollars to help small and medium-sized auto parts suppliers access easier financing for refinancing and business expansion.

For this purpose, the investment company Monroe Capital has been selected to launch the “Drive Forward Fund LP,” whose role is to provide financial support to businesses supplying key components, such as powertrains, body structures, transmissions, chassis, interiors, and electric components, as well as complementary software-as-a-service (SaaS) providers and other auto technologies and business services in the industry, according to the statement.

The fund will also assess growth opportunities for investing in innovative companies involved in the production of battery components and subcomponents, as well as material recycling.

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The US Department of the Treasury announced a grant of 9.1 million dollars to launch the Automotive Supplier Transition Program in Michigan, which is designed to help smaller businesses acquire financing for manufacturing electric vehicle components.

John Bozzella, president and CEO of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, said that the transition to the electrification of the automotive industry in the United States requires a modern auto supply chain that keeps the country competitive and ensures economic and national security.

“Automakers are investing billions in this transition and producing electrified vehicles across all brands and models, but it’s important to remember that the auto supply chain is made up of hundreds of companies—many of which are small and medium-sized businesses,” Bozzella said.

In July, the Department of Energy announced plans to award GM and Stellantis nearly 1.1 billion dollars in grants to convert existing factories to electric vehicle and component production, while last week, a three-billion-dollar grant for the battery manufacturing sector was announced.

Energetski portal

Energy Security Through the Development of the Prosumer Market

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Dina Lydia)
Photo: courtesy of Lazar Ivanović

Much has been said recently about prosumers (consumer-producers) of electricity from renewable sources in Serbia, but little is still known. Promoting energy security and independence involves empowering citizens and businesses to produce energy for their needs, primarily through solar power, which helps reduce pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

Lazar Ivanović, the chief economist at CEVES, an independent research and development organization, co-authors a study titled “Promoting Energy Security Through the Development of the Prosumer Market”. The study was conducted to provide a comprehensive overview of the prosumer market in Serbia. Alongside a detailed overview of the situation in the Western Balkans (Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania), Serbia was used as a case study focusing on the household sector, which is of greatest interest to most citizens.

Ivanović states that the development of the prosumer market in Serbia is very slow compared to wealthier and technologically advanced EU countries and neighboring countries with a similar level of development. Since 2021, when the new Law on Renewable Energy Sources came into force, until the end of May this year, according to Elektrodistribucija Srbije, the number of registered prosumers was 2,300 households and only three residential communities, with a total installed capacity of less than 19 MW, which is about 0.5 per cent of the planned capacities for 2023.

“When adding the economy to this, we get about 3,000 prosumers with less than 52 MW of electricity production capacity. On the other hand, significantly smaller economies like Albania and North Macedonia already had total prosumer capacities exceeding 119 MW and 129  MW, respectively, in the first half of 2023. Even Montenegro, with ten times fewer inhabitants than Serbia, managed to reach 4,000 prosumers with a total installed capacity of 43.5 MW by mid-May 2024,” says Ivanović.

IN FOCUS:

Energy Consumption Per Capita

According to Eurostat data for 2022, households in Serbia consume 165 kWh of electricity per capita per month, about 15 per cent more than the Western Balkans average and 24 per cent more than the EU average. Households in Montenegro consume the most—185 KWh, while those in Albania consume the least—100 KWh.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (jason mavrommatis)

Regarding energy efficiency or intensity, the economies of the Western Balkans need about 56 per cent more energy on average to produce the same amount of GDP as the EU. Ivanović states that although the energy intensity of these economies, measured as total available energy divided by GDP, has fallen by 20 per cent since 2017, the EU managed to reduce it even more (by 25 per cent), worsening the region’s energy efficiency relative to EU member states. The main reason for higher energy intensity in the Western Balkans is a combination of low electricity prices and decades of insufficient investment in energy efficiency.

According to the study, the Western Balkans had a slightly higher share of RES in electricity production in 2022 (37.3 per cent net) than the EU (34.5 per cent). However, while the EU increased its RES share by eight per cent from 2016 to 2022, it decreased by about 1.5 per cent in the Western Balkans over the same period.

“When it comes to solar energy, it accounted for only about 0.6 per cent of total net electricity production in the Western Balkans in 2022 (about 7.7 per cent in the EU), but its share increased sixfold compared to 2016 (twice in the EU). The situation varies from country to country and is unfavorable for Serbia,” explains Ivanović.

The study’s results show that not only do all Western Balkan countries have a higher share of solar energy in total electricity production compared to Serbia, but North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Albania also produce more solar energy in absolute terms (92, 114, 161 GWh net annually) compared to significantly larger Serbia (16 GWh).

Prepared by Mirjana Vujadinović Tomevski

Read the story in the new issue the Energy portal Magazine AGROSOLAR ENERGY AND RES.

A Systematic Ground-Mounted PV solution: Easy to install thanks to aluminium and universal anchoring

Photo: K2 Systems
Photo: K2 Systems

Ground-mounted photovoltaic systems offer a decisive advantage: they often achieve a higher output per area than roof-mounted systems. So it’s no wonder that these PV solutions are becoming increasingly popular. This was recently the case in Senta, near the Serbian-Hungarian border, where construction of Serbia’s largest solar power plant began in May. But how can such systems be installed quickly and efficiently? The German manufacturer K2 Systems has an innovative solution with its new K2 N-Rack.

K2 N-Rack is a simple, modular ground-mounted system that is suitable for small and medium-sized photovoltaic systems. The system can be mounted on both concrete and pile-driven foundations, offering PV professionals greater flexibility.

Thanks to the aluminium components, it is possible to react quickly and easily to unevenness during installation, so that an installation adapted to the requirements of the outdoor environment can be realised with less effort. The lightweight material also facilitates ergonomic working. K2 N-Rack can be flexibly adapted to the new module sizes and mounted with a 15° or 20° tilt angle.

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On the basis of pile-driven foundations, three rows of Portrait modules can be installed per table with the 15° elevation and two rows of modules with the 20° elevation. In the case of concrete foundations, the 20° elevation can be realised with two rows of Portrait modules per table.

All components are, of course, statically optimised for each other. The product developers at K2 Systems are convinced: “The system is easy to install, economically attractive and enables the realisation of larger open-space projects with proven K2 quality.”

Source: K2 Systems

Europe: Children’s Products Release Toxic Chemicals

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (jerrymarx32)

Across Europe, children are exposed daily to toxic chemicals found in various products, from plastic bottles to toys and clothing. A major problem is the presence of banned substances such as phthalates and PFAS, which threaten their development and health.

Phthalates are a group of chemical compounds used in plastic products to make them more flexible and durable. PFAS are a group of chemicals known as “forever pollutants” because they are highly resistant. They are added to make products resistant to water, grease, and heat.

Recent studies have shown that these chemicals often end up in a child’s body, which has been confirmed by their detection. As a result, non-governmental organizations are calling on the European Union to urgently update regulations to ban such dangerous chemicals, especially in products intended for children.

The Tegengif Foundation from the Netherlands conducted a study in collaboration with five European non-governmental organizations. The results, as reported by the European Environmental Bureau (EEB), showed that plastic drinking bottles intended for children release Diisobutyl Phthalate (DIBP). This chemical compound can disrupt hormones and lead to serious health issues, such as reproductive disorders. Although the detected amounts were below the allowable level, the mere presence of this substance is concerning.

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Furthermore, the study revealed that only a small number of chemicals released from plastic bottles for children can be accurately identified. This means that numerous chemicals present in plastic still cannot be recognized or analyzed.

Another conducted study showed that more than half of children’s jackets, as well as other clothing, contain PFAS. However, it was also pointed out that there are products on the market that do not contain PFAS, meaning that companies can produce clothing without these chemicals.

All research results point to the urgent need for action from the European Union, as the potential for improvement exists, but regulations are outdated. Such dangerous substances should be completely banned in products intended for children.

Energy portal

What the “United in Science 2024” Report Reveals

Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

Climate change caused by human activities has led to widespread and rapid changes in the atmosphere, oceans, cryosphere, and biosphere. Its consequences and dangerous weather conditions are undoing developmental achievements and threatening the well-being of people and the planet, according to a new multi-agency report coordinated by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

Greenhouse gas concentrations are at record levels, driving future temperature increases. The gap between goals and actual emissions remains large. Global greenhouse gas emissions increased by 1.2 percent from 2021 to 2022, reaching 57.4 billion tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) equivalent. Global average concentrations of CO2, methane, and nitrous oxide also reached new records.

According to current policies, there is a two-thirds chance that global warming will reach 3°C this century, the “United in Science” report states. To limit global warming to below 2°C and 1.5°C (above pre-industrial levels), global emissions by 2030 must decrease by 28 percent and 42 percent, respectively, compared to the levels projected by current policies.

This report explores how advances in natural and social sciences, new technologies, and innovations are improving our understanding of Earth’s systems and could be key to adapting to climate change, reducing disaster risk, and achieving sustainable development.

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Urgent action is needed to reduce emissions and adapt to climate change. However, one in six countries still lacks a national adaptation plan, and a significant financial gap remains, with a decline in international public funding for adaptation since 2020.

“We need urgent and ambitious action now to support sustainable development, climate action, and disaster risk reduction. The decisions we make today could be the difference between future collapse or a breakthrough towards a better world,” said Celeste Saulo, WMO Secretary-General.

The United Nations Future Summit offers a unique opportunity to revitalize and recommit to global goals, according to the report, which was compiled by a consortium of United Nations agencies, meteorological organizations, and scientific and research bodies. The report also includes contributions from young people and early-career scientists, who are the changemakers for the future.

Advances in meteorology, climate, water, and related ecological and social sciences offer tremendous opportunities to fully support the realization of global goals, including the Paris Agreement, the 2030 Agenda, the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, and the EW4All initiative.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Ryan Duffy)

Revolution in Weather Forecasting

Thanks to rapid advancements, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are enabling more accurate weather modeling that is faster, cheaper, and more accessible to lower-income countries with limited computational resources. Some estimates suggest that AI/ML has the potential to predict hazardous events such as tropical cyclones and longer-term phenomena like El Niño and La Niña.

While there are great opportunities, we face many challenges, particularly with limited data quality and availability. Current AI/ML models do not account for more unpredictable variables related to the ocean, land, cryosphere, and the carbon cycle.

Energetics Portal

China Joins Monitoring of Fukushima Water Release

Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (Jakob Madsen)

In 2011, Japan suffered a devastating natural disaster when a powerful earthquake, followed by a tsunami, caused over 20,000 deaths and destroyed vast areas of land. The tsunami flooded an area of 560 km², and this catastrophe severely damaged the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, which proved resilient to earthquakes but not to the high wave that flooded the reactors.

In the years following the accident, the TEPCO company worked on collecting and treating contaminated water to prevent further environmental pollution. Using the Advanced Liquid Processing System (ALPS), the radioactivity in the water was significantly reduced. However, due to limited storage capacity, Japan adopted a plan in 2021 to gradually release the treated water into the Pacific Ocean.

Although the water has been treated to remove most radioactive materials, tritium, a hydrogen isotope, remains present as it is more challenging to remove. While the risks from it are minimal, there are concerns in the region about its long-term environmental impact and effects on fisheries. Since Japan is not the only country bordering the Pacific Ocean, another country has now become involved in monitoring this process.

The IAEA conducted an extensive review and issued a comprehensive report in July 2023, confirming the safety of the proposed water release process.

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However, recent developments now include China’s participation in this process. China’s involvement helps ensure additional transparency and increases confidence that the process will be safe and compliant with the highest international standards. After consultations between Japan and China, the two countries agreed on additional measures within the IAEA framework to enhance stakeholder participation. The IAEA will now coordinate with both Japan and China, as well as other involved countries, in implementing these additional measures, further strengthening efforts for monitoring and supervision, as stated on their website.

There is concern that if tritium accumulates in marine ecosystems, it could affect marine organisms, especially with prolonged exposure. Although tritium emits low-energy beta radiation, which cannot penetrate human skin, it can be ingested through water or food. Given that China also shares these coastal waters, it seeks a more transparent approach. Nonetheless, the scientific community believes that tritium concentrations in the treated water to be released from Fukushima are below levels that would pose a risk to human health or the environment, provided that international standards are followed.

As for the amount of water, Japan plans to release about 1.3 million tons of treated water, which is equivalent to several hundred Olympic-sized swimming pools.

Energetski Portal

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