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Brestovac Paves the Way for Energy Transition Through Solar Energy

Foto: MT-KOMEX

The south of Serbia is known for its mountainous landscapes, specialties, and hospitality – traits recognized far beyond the region. While the residents of this area carefully preserve what makes it special, they simultaneously open the door to new opportunities that benefit both the present and the future. One such opportunity is using clean energy, which is increasingly finding its place in this part of the country.

Brestovac, a settlement within the city of Leskovac, has recognized the importance of renewable energy sources by allocating its land to produce green energy. On an area of 2.5 hectares, the company MT-KOMEX began the construction of the solar power plant – Solar Elektro at the end of February this year. The investor of this project, Solar Elektro d.o.o. Kragujevac entrusted the construction to MT-KOMEX, a company recognized for its extensive experience and reliability as a partner. With over 250 ground and rooftop solar power projects implemented, this company has installed over 350,000 solar panels.

For the realization of this project, the company’s expert team will install 2,600 solar panels, each with a capacity of 640 Wp, manufactured by Aiko. The total installed capacity of the solar power plant will be 1,664 MWp, while the active power will be 1,500 kW. The quality of a solar power plant is reflected in careful planning and precise execution. To maximize electricity production during the summer months, the solar panels will be vertically oriented and mounted on a supporting substructure at a tilt angle of 20°, facing south. The southern and southwestern parts of Serbia are among the sunniest regions in the country, making them ideal for developing solar power plants and enhancing long-term energy stability.

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The project envisages a total of 15 inverters with an individual power of 100 kW, manufactured by Huawei (model – SUN2000-100KTL-M2). The inverter automatically synchronizes with the grid at a voltage of 0.4 kV. Once operational, the solar power plant will deliver all the electricity it generates to the power distribution system. Annual production is expected to reach approximately 2,335.4 MWh, representing a significant contribution to increasing the share of solar energy in the overall power grid.

To ensure the highest level of safety for the solar power plant, a lightning protection system with an early steamer emission device is planned to protect the facility from atmospheric discharges. Sensors will be installed within the power plant to monitor local meteorological data relevant to the plant’s operation.

These sensors will measure four key parameters: solar radiation intensity, wind speed, ambient temperature, and the temperature of the solar panels.

In addition to producing clean energy, this project will also contribute to reducing carbon dioxide emissions. On an annual basis, the power plant is expected to lower CO2 emissions by 2,246 kilograms, further supporting environmental protection and improving air quality in the region.

This solar project lays the foundation for an energy-independent and environmentally responsible community in Brestovac, contributing to a sustainable future for Serbia as a whole.

Prepared by: Katarina Vuinac

Read the story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY 

EBRD – Driving Serbia’s Green Transition and Sustainable Development

Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (dusan-pokusevski)

As Serbia accelerates its journey towards a more sustainable and competitive economy, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) remains one of its key investors and partners. With annual investments exceeding 800 million euros, the EBRD actively supports projects that contribute to the energy transition, infrastructure modernization, and strengthening the private sector.

We spoke with Jelena Čeperković, Deputy Head of the EBRD for Serbia, about how the EBRD’s strategy is reflected in concrete projects across the country – from the rehabilitation of hydropower plants and wind farms, to modernizing rail and air transport, as well as investments in environmental infrastructure and energy efficiency. 

Q: How much did the EBRD invest in Serbia in 2024, and how much additional funding was mobilized from other sources?

Foto: Ljubaznošću Jelene Čeperković

A: The EBRD is the leading institutional investor in Serbia, with an active portfolio currently exceeding three billion euros. In 2024, for the second year in a row, we invested more than 800 million euros and mobilized an additional 395 million euros from other investors. We work closely with the European Union and other donors, and we also mobilize our own resources to complement the projects we finance with grants where most appropriate.

Q: How many projects did the EBRD support in Serbia last year, and which sector received the highest investment?

A: Last year, we supported a record 37 projects in Serbia, with total investments amounting to 807 million euros. These investments spanned various economic sectors, with a strategic focus on the transition to a green economy, strengthening the capacity of the private sector, and financing sustainable infrastructure.

Most of last year’s investments – nearly 500 million euros – were directed towards the green transition, primarily through renewable energy projects, decarbonizing district heating systems, and improvements to environmental infrastructure. We also supported several key infrastructure projects in the railway and aviation sectors and the rollout of high-speed broadband internet in rural areas.

Additionally, we continued efforts to boost the competitiveness of the private sector through both direct investments and advisory support aimed at improving access to finance and business practices for SMEs. Most of the real economy financing was achieved in collaboration with local banks, through which we provide targeted credit lines for SMEs.

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Q: What are the key projects funded in the area of green transition and renewable energy?

A: Since 2020, the EBRD has invested nearly one billion euros in 23 energy sector projects across the Western Balkans. Although a significant part of this investment includes liquidity credit lines granted during the 2023 energy crisis, our primary priority remains expanding the capacity of renewable energy sources.

In Serbia, we are currently financing projects in both the public sector, through EPS and EDS, and with private investors. We recently secured a 67-million-euro loan and an investment grant of over 15 million euros from the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) to fund the rehabilitation of the Vlasina hydropower plants, among the oldest in the EPS system, which will result in modernization and increased capacity. In addition, we are financing the Pupin wind farm, the first project built under the initial round of auctions for solar and wind power held in 2023.

Alongside direct financing, we place great emphasis on maintaining ongoing dialogue with the government on energy sector reform, further decarbonization, and greater sustainability. One example is the technical assistance provided to the relevant ministry in designing and implementing a three-year plan for auctioning 1,300 MW of wind and solar capacity, realized in partnership with the Swiss government, and delivering excellent results. We also offer EPS a comprehensive advisory support package in key areas such as decarbonization, corporate governance, and human capital development.

Q: How has the EBRD supported modernizing Serbia’s railway and air transport systems?

A: Railway sector modernization is one of the EBRD’s priorities in Serbia, as evidenced by over one billion euros in investment to date. The most significant project in this area is the reconstruction of the high-speed railway from Belgrade to Niš, financed jointly with our partners from the EIB and the EU. This project aims to ensure fast, reliable, and safe transport of passengers and goods along this corridor while also supporting the country’s overall economic development and local and regional conne ctivity. In recent years, we have also financed the procurement of new rolling stock for Srbija Voz and Srbija Kargo, which, along with infrastructure improvements, should enhance the competitiveness of rail as one of the greenest modes of transport. Additionally, through advisory support linked to these projects, we are working to improve corporate governance and commercialization and to modernize curricula in secondary and higher railway schools, including the implementation of dual education to attract suitable future talent for the railway sector.

As for air transport, last year we continued our successful cooperation and provided new funding to the Serbia and Montenegro Air Traffic Services Agency (SMATSA) to facilitate the transition to the latest version of the air traffic management system, thereby improving safety, efficiency, and service quality.

Interview by Katarina Vuinac

The inteview was published in the Energy portal Magazine SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY 

World Bee Day Calls for Urgent Action – Human Survival Depends on Bees

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Meggyn Pomerleau)

Today, World Bee Day is being marked across the globe – a day aimed at raising awareness about the vital role bees play in preserving biodiversity, sustaining ecosystems, and ensuring global food security. At the same time, this day reminds us of the growing threats bees face – from habitat loss and pollution to climate change and harmful agricultural practices – all of which directly endanger their survival and, consequently, the future of our planet.

At the initiative of the Slovenian Beekeepers’ Association, the United Nations declared May 20th as World Bee Day in 2017. Boštjan Noč, President of the European Beekeeping Association and President of the Slovenian Beekeepers’ Association, warned that beekeepers are losing the motivation to continue, and if they start leaving the practice, we are facing a disaster in the near future.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Ergita Sela)

“Quite simply, there will be fewer bees each year, and as a result, the free pollination services they provide will disappear – this will seriously impact food production… So, Europe – it’s now or never! This concerns bees, beekeepers, and consumers,” said Noč, as reported by the Association of Beekeeping Organizations of Serbia.

He identified several key measures to protect beekeepers and bees, including the urgent removal of fake honey from the European market, as well as direct payments to beekeepers through agricultural and environmental programs to support the free pollination services provided by bees.

Causes of Bee Population Decline

More than 75 percent of the world’s food crops depend, to some extent, on pollinators – including bees, butterflies, birds, bats, and other insects.

Without pollinators, many nutritionally rich crops – such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds – could be replaced by less nutritious crops like rice, potatoes, and corn. This would directly jeopardize the nutritional balance of human diets, especially in poor and rural communities.

According to data from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and other relevant organizations, current extinction rates of pollinator species are 100 to 1,000 times higher than natural rates, mainly due to human activities. Estimates indicate that about 35 percent of invertebrate pollinators, including bees and butterflies, and 17 percent of vertebrate pollinators, such as bats and birds, are at risk of extinction.

The main threats to pollinator survival include habitat loss, intensive agriculture, excessive use of pesticides, herbicides and fungicides, pollution, and climate change.

Bees are not just honey producers – they are indicators of environmental health. Their presence, behavior, and well-being reflect the state of ecosystems – including air, water, and soil quality. Therefore, their disappearance should not be viewed as an isolated biological event, but as a sign of broader ecological imbalance.

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How Can We Help Protect Bees?

Everyone can contribute to bee protection – whether as an individual, beekeeper, farmer, policymaker, or member of the community:

Citizens can:

  • Plant native flowers that bloom at different times of the year,
  • Buy local, raw honey,
  • Avoid using pesticides in gardens,
  • Set up water fountains for bees,
  • Raise awareness and educate others about the importance of bees.

Beekeepers and farmers can

  • Reduce and control the use of chemicals,
  • Diversify crops and plant pollinator-friendly species,
  • Install hedgerows and shelters for wild bees.

World Bee Day is not just an opportunity to celebrate these extraordinary insects but also to acknowledge their crucial role in the future of our food and planetary health. In an era of climate change and growing food supply uncertainty, bees are our quietest – but most important – allies.

Energy portal

Study in South Asia: How Seemingly Simple Changes in Brick Kilns Delivered Major Results

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (steve-johnson)

Bangladesh is among the most polluted countries in the world. A significant portion of this pollution stems from its industrial sector—especially textile, leather, and construction industries—as well as the wastewater they generate and the dense, unregulated traffic. The traditional brick-making industry has for decades been a vital part of the South Asian economy, particularly in Bangladesh.

This very industry, which provides livelihoods for a large number of people, is one of the largest contributors to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide (CO₂) and fine particulate matter (PM 2.5). Brick production, which largely relies on coal combustion, has particularly harmful health effects in countries with weak regulatory systems and limited technical capacities.

Against this backdrop, researchers from the Boston University School of Public Health, in collaboration with partners from Stanford University, icddr,b in Bangladesh, Greentech Knowledge Solutions, and the University of Dhaka, conducted one of the most comprehensive studies to date to examine whether and how the brick industry can become more efficient and cleaner without relying on enforcement or legal regulations.

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The study involved 276 brick kilns across Bangladesh between 2022 and 2023. The intervention included providing education, technical assistance, and practical advice to kiln owners on implementing simple operational changes, such as improved brick stacking methods, switching to biomass as fuel, and reducing heat loss in the kilns.

The results were encouraging: 65 percent of kiln owners adopted the recommended changes, which led to a 23 percent reduction in energy use, around a 20 percent decrease in CO₂ and PM 2.5 emissions, as well as improved brick quality and savings on coal consumption. One year later, researchers found that the improved practices were still in place—and had even expanded further due to their effectiveness.

Despite existing laws in Bangladesh that prohibit, for example, the use of firewood or require that brick kilns not be located near schools and hospitals, most kilns are still situated near schools, and working conditions are often extremely harsh. This industry produces 27 billion bricks annually and is responsible for as much as 17 percent of national CO₂ emissions and 11 percent of PM 2.5 emissions in Bangladesh.

The study by the Boston University School of Public Health, conducted in partnership with international collaborators, demonstrates that sustainability does not have to come from complex technologies and strict regulations, but rather from simple, profitable, and locally adapted solutions.

Energy portal

 
 

Record-Breaking Barrier Removal in Europe 2024 – 2,900 km of Rivers Restored to Natural Flow

Photo-illustration: Freepik (wirestock)

Dam Removal Europe, an initiative and network dedicated to removing old or non-functional dams across Europe, announced that a new record was achieved in 2024 with 542 river barriers removed. As highlighted, this reflects growing support and understanding among communities and governments.

Removals took place in 23 countries, with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, the Czech Republic, and Turkey removing their first river barriers. Among the top-performing countries, Finland stands out with at least 138 removals, followed by France, Spain, and Sweden.

More than 2,900 kilometers of rivers were reconnected. In Italy, five barriers were removed along an 11-kilometer river stretch, restoring its natural flow for the first time in decades. In Croatia, 16 kilometers of rivers were reconnected, which also strengthened climate resilience, water and food security, and halted biodiversity loss, according to WWF Adria.

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There are over 1.2 million obstacles in European rivers — such as dams, barriers, and culverts — that interrupt their natural flow. Many of these structures are outdated and have a negative impact on the free movement of water, sediments, nutrients, and aquatic species. This fragmentation weakens the resilience of river ecosystems and reduces their natural functions, significantly contributing to biodiversity loss. A particularly alarming trend is the drastic decline in migratory freshwater fish populations, which have decreased by about 75 percent since 1970 in Europe.

In addition to the record-setting barrier removal, the past year was also marked by the implementation of the EU Nature Restoration Law, which sets a goal of restoring at least 25,000 kilometers of rivers to free-flowing conditions. Barrier removal plays a key role in the global Freshwater Challenge, which aims to restore 300,000 kilometers of degraded rivers by 2030.

Energy portal

Nature and Climate Protection Takes Another Major Hit in EU Proposal to “Simplify” Agricultural Policy

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Dylan de Jonge)

As part of the third omnibus package, the European Commission today published a proposal outlining sweeping revisions, or “simplifications”, of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), which if implemented would risk dismantling vital environmental protections without evidence or impact assessment, warns the European Environmental Bureau (EEB).

Farmers across Europe are facing the severe impacts of the climate, nature, and pollution crisis, but instead of strengthening environmental standards to support farm resilience, the proposed changes would further weaken the few mandatory green measures left following the last ”simplification”.

Théo Paquet, Senior Policy Officer for Agriculture at the EEB, said:

“Without sufficient impact assessment or real public consultation, the European Commission has yet again casually done away with nature and climate protections in Europe’s largest budget, the Common Agricultural Policy. Such short–sighted decisions will not only hinder farm resilience (due the many benefits provided by healthy ecosystems), but brings the legitimacy of the CAP into question as it strays further from its environmental and climate objectives.”

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The EEB is most concerned by: 

  • Weakening of the protection of grasslands (Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition (GAEC) 1): under the proposal, areas of permanent grassland (vital carbon sinks which release vast amounts of carbon when ploughed) can now be decreased by 10 percent (up from 5 percent) from the 2018 reference level before Member States are required to impose obligations to convert back to grassland.
  • Weakening of protection of peatlands and wetlands (GAEC 2): The Commission proposes allowing Member States to use existing national legislation to define the rules under this GAEC and to pay farmers to comply with these rules. This would allow public money to be used to fund mere compliance with the law, which would undermine the principle that public money should only be used to fund what is additional to mandatory requirements. This is a missed opportunity to strengthen already weak protections for vital wetlands and grasslands, which are a massive carbon sink, filter and store water and shield farmland from climate impacts. Funding should instead be given to farmers that go beyond the rules and engage in real re-wetting of such areas.
  • Removal of links between the CAP and new environmental and climate legislation (notably Articles 120 and 159): This not only marks a step backwards in the EU’s efforts to deliver a “greener CAP” but goes against the requirements set out in the EU treaties to ensure that sustainability efforts are integrated across policies. It would mean that national CAP Plans won’t be required to be coherent with, or contribute to, the Nature Restoration Law or the emerging Soil Monitoring Law. This leads back to a lack of policy coherence and a missed opportunity to provide much needed support to farmers to implement these new European laws.

In addition to these, the EEB has concerns about the proposed changes that would reduce the need for the Commission to approve any changes to Member State’s CAP Strategic Plans, instead only reviewing “strategic amendments”. This could result in weaker oversight and lessen the opportunity for effective monitoring and adjustment of the CAP’s environmental impact.

Source: EEB

AirCar: Between the Sky and the Asphalt (VIDEO)

Photo: Klein Vision

Red carpet, spotlights, and celebrities from the world of showbiz — all part of a glamorous evening in Beverly Hills. And then, entering the spotlight: a flying car. No, it’s not a scene from the latest Marvel blockbuster (despite hosts John Travolta and Morgan Freeman), but a real event from the 2025 Living Legends of Aviation gala, where the AirCar — a prototype of the world’s first mass-produced flying car — was officially unveiled.

Behind this marvel stands Klein Vision, a Slovak company led by Stefan Klein — a man of grand vision and even greater patience. Imagine this: 35 years of development, five generations of prototypes, and finally — a vehicle that transforms from a car into an aircraft in under two minutes.

At the event, Klein received a Special Award for Engineering Excellence, and a short documentary about his life’s work was screened to an audience that included Prince Harry, legendary astronaut Buzz Aldrin, and numerous other notable figures. One of the evening’s highlights was a tribute to firefighter pilots for their courageous efforts in battling wildfires in California — a form of heroism that can’t be measured in wingspan or horsepower.

Photo: Klein Vision

Speaking of power — the AirCar already holds a certificate of airworthiness, has logged over 170 hours of flight, and completed more than 500 takeoffs and landings. Under the hood, it boasts a 280-horsepower engine. So tell me — who would still choose to wrestle with traffic circles when you can simply rise above it all?

Todd Douglas Miller, the award-winning director of Apollo 11, had the chance to watch the AirCar in flight from a second aircraft. His reaction? “They’ve turned dreams and science fiction into something astonishingly real.”

Even James May of Top Gear fame was left speechless — and we all know how rare that is.

To cap off the evening, Klein Vision co-founder Anton Zajac shared some serious figures: the personal air mobility market is growing by over 50 percent annually, and by 2034, it’s projected to be worth $162 billion. And AirCar? It’s already set to claim its share of both the skies and the market.

Even when powered by fossil fuels, flying cars can contribute to sustainability — if used efficiently and smartly integrated into transport systems. Their primary advantage is shorter travel times and the ability to bypass traffic congestion, which can reduce overall fuel consumption and emissions per kilometer traveled. Moreover, modern flying cars are being developed with a focus on aerodynamics and lightweight materials, further boosting energy efficiency.

So, dear readers, if you’ve ever dreamed of skipping traffic on Gazela bridge or soaring over your neighbor’s poorly parked SUV — know this: the world is heading in that direction. The future is no longer “someday.” The future has wings. And its name is AirCar.

Milena Maglovski

China Surpasses Wind and Solar Targets Ahead of Schedule – What Comes Next in Its Energy Transition?

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (_leoneil)

China has entered a pivotal phase of its energy transition, according to a new analysis by the international think tank EMBER. In 2024, the country surpassed its 2030 renewable energy targets by installing a record 278 GW of solar power and 79.8 GW of wind power. This growth pushed the nation’s total clean energy capacity beyond 1,400 GW, enabling renewables to meet more than 80 percent of the rise in electricity demand. Simultaneously, coal’s share in electricity generation continued to decline.

While these achievements are significant, sustaining momentum will require China to move beyond simply adding megawatts of wind and solar. The next stage demands a fundamental upgrade of its power system infrastructure. This includes deploying advanced electrification technologies for heavy industry, integrating AI-driven smart grids to balance supply and demand, expanding long-duration energy storage, and investing in carbon removal technologies to curb residual emissions.

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One of the greatest challenges lies in decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors such as steel and shipbuilding. In these industries, current technologies are no longer sufficient. While China has made important advances in developing next-generation solutions, many obstacles remain. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), over 60 percent of the key technologies needed to reach net-zero emissions by 2050 are still not commercially viable.

This is the stage China now finds itself in – where many innovations exist as prototypes in laboratories but are not yet ready for industrial-scale deployment. Known as the “valley of death” for innovation, this phase is widely seen as the most critical, as it involves substantial technical and financial risks in scaling up from controlled environments to real-world applications.

Global pressures and mounting geopolitical tensions are creating economic challenges for China, but they also present an opportunity to shape a sustainable, long-term energy future. The path forward lies in accelerating technological innovation in clean energy — backed by strategic planning, greater research investment, and strong political support.

Energy Portal

Continuation of the UK Offshore Wind Capacity Expansion Programme

Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik)

The Crown Estate has approved an increase in capacity for seven existing offshore wind farms, enabling the full potential of the current seabed lease areas to be maximized. According to The Crown Estate’s website, this expansion could deliver an additional 4.7 gigawatts of clean energy—enough to power approximately four million households.

The Crown Estate is a unique institution in the United Kingdom that manages a vast portfolio of land and marine assets owned by the Crown, yet operates independently of the monarch. Since the UK’s coastal seabeds are technically under the jurisdiction of The Crown Estate, the institution grants leases and licenses for the use of the seabed for offshore wind farms, cable routes, CO₂ storage, and other energy infrastructure projects.

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This decision is part of the UK government’s broader objective to reach 50 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030. It comes at a time when nearly 15 GW of offshore wind capacity is already installed in the UK’s energy system. A key advantage of this programme is the utilization of existing infrastructure and grid connections, enabling swift and efficient implementation without requiring additional land use.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has endorsed The Crown Estate’s assessment that the project is of national significance, as it supports the decarbonization of the electricity system by 2035, reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels, and stimulates the growth of the domestic industry and job creation.

In parallel with this development, The Crown Estate has also announced plans to modernize its legal framework through a new 2025 legislative act, which will grant it greater financial flexibility by allowing new borrowing and investment powers.

Energy portal

A Weekend Dedicated to Cleaning and Greening Serbia

Photo: EP

Recently, we celebrated May 1st – International Workers’ Day – a holiday that many traditionally spend in nature, enjoying barbecues, socializing, and relaxing. However, these gatherings often leave behind waste that mars the beauty of our natural environment. This past weekend, people across Serbia once again spent time outdoors – but this time with a different goal: to clean up the waste we generate every day.

Photo: EP

Organized or independently, diligent hands were active at numerous locations. The initiative ”Roll Up Your Sleeves” helped coordinate clean-up efforts on May 11 at 399 locations in 158 cities and towns. From Palić, Sombor, Kikinda, Bečej, and Zrenjanin, through Novi Sad, Belgrade and its suburbs, to Smederevska Palanka, Topola, Gornji Milanovac, Čačak, Arilje, Kraljevo, Niš, and Vlasotince – these are just some of the participating areas. According to data published on the official “Roll Up Your Sleeves” page, over 20,000 bags of waste were collected.

In Belgrade alone, more than 140 locations were included. The weekend campaign connected participants and inspired long-term thinking – with the hope that such actions will not be isolated events, but part of a daily routine that people will continue to shape themselves.

A positive example comes from Smederevska Palanka, where residents cleaned two streets, multiple green areas, sports fields, and a children’s playground in the Kolonija neighborhood. A group of citizens, organizing under the slogan ”Let’s Clean Kolonija”, has been cleaning the neighborhood every weekend for the past month. This time, several new volunteers joined them thanks to the ”Roll Up Your Sleeves” campaign. One of the participants, Valentina Talijan, said that although they’ve managed to eliminate several long-standing illegal dumps, waste keeps reappearing – which is why their goal is to reach institutions and address the causes, not just the consequences.

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”We also prepared guidelines for our fellow residents on how to properly dispose of waste to help keep the neighborhood clean – we’ll be implementing this action in the coming weeks”, she added.

Photo: EP

A similar spirit was seen in Zemun Polje, where during the campaign, residents spontaneously started discussing future steps to tackle ecological and other local issues – showing that the will is there; it just needs to be activated. As they pointed out, their neighborhood is significantly more polluted than it used to be, and they want to restore the cleanliness and beauty they remember from childhood. Still, for long-term solutions, they emphasize the need for institutional support. In addition to collecting waste, locals cleaned and revitalized the central playground and park – mowing the grass, trimming bushes, and uncovering overgrown benches to make the space pleasant again. The youngest volunteers also contributed by planting flowers.

In the past few days, other cleanup initiatives took place, such as the removal of illegal dumps and the maintenance of picnic areas. Bajina Bašta began preparations for the summer season by organizing activities to tidy up recreational spots across the municipality. Supported by the local government, public utilities, and institutions, major actions were also launched to clean illegal dumps. In Sombor, the public utility company “Čistoća” continued the removal of smaller illegal dumps.

The collective efforts of citizens and organizations across Serbia show that caring for the environment is more than an individual task – it is a shared responsibility that we must continue to build through concrete actions and long-term change.

Energy portal

After the Energy Collapse, a New Debate on the Role of Nuclear Energy in Spain

Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (Jakob Madsen)

On April 28, 2025, Spain and Portugal experienced one of the most significant blackouts in their recent history. Within seconds, the power system of the Iberian Peninsula collapsed, leaving millions of people without electricity, water, and in complete darkness. The Ministries of the Interior declared a state of emergency, and the consequences were visible everywhere: halted metro systems in Madrid, Barcelona, Lisbon, and Porto, grounded flights at major airports, traffic chaos due to inoperative traffic lights, cancelled medical procedures, and disrupted water supply.

Although most services were restored the following day, one critical question remained: how did such a widespread and simultaneous collapse occur in two technically advanced and interconnected systems? And more importantly – what does this incident reveal about the structure of the energy mix and the future of nuclear energy in Spain?

The Structure of Spain’s Energy System

At the end of 2024, Spain’s total net installed generation capacity reached nearly 129,000 MW. Of that, renewable energy sources accounted for 66 percent of the total capacity. Among them, wind power (23.2 percent), solar power (18.6 percent), and hydropower (13.3 percent) dominate, according to data from the grid operator Red Eléctrica. This mix enables a significant reduction in emissions, but also brings new challenges—particularly regarding grid stability.

Renewable sources lack what is known as inertia—the physical resistance to changes in frequency within the power grid. Unlike conventional power plants with large rotating turbines, wind and solar plants rely on inverters that cannot absorb sudden oscillations, making the grid more vulnerable to disturbances. As these plants dropped offline, the next in line were the nuclear units.

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The Role of Nuclear Energy in the Energy Mix

In this context, the debate on the role of nuclear energy is resurfacing. Spain operates seven nuclear reactors, which together produced nearly 20 percent of the country’s total electricity in 2024.

Due to their large rotating turbines, nuclear power plants contribute to grid stability by maintaining constant frequency and providing so-called baseload power. During the incident, four reactors were operational and shut down automatically when the grid collapsed, in accordance with safety protocols. The other three reactors were offline because Red Eléctrica had requested their temporary shutdown due to an oversupply from renewable sources. This decision is now under scrutiny, as the lack of rotating inertia from nuclear and other conventional sources is considered one of the contributing factors to the instability, according to World Nuclear News.

Back in 2019, Spain adopted a plan to gradually phase out all nuclear reactors by 2035. According to that roadmap, four reactors are scheduled to close by the end of 2030, with the remaining three to follow within the next five years. However, the recent events may change the outlook.

Energy portal

Switzerland Tests Solar System Between Railway Tracks

Photo-illustration: Freepik (rorozoa)

Swiss startup Sun-Ways has officially launched the first removable solar power plant installed between active railway tracks.

This marks a significant step toward full integration of solar technology into railway networks, with the potential for both national and international expansion.

The photovoltaic system spans a 100-meter section of track in the canton of Neuchâtel. The panels were installed using a special machine developed by partner company Scheuchzer, capable of rapidly deploying up to 1,000 square meters of solar panels within just a few hours.

The electrical connections are built directly into the panels, while cleaning is handled by cylindrical brushes mounted on the rear of trains. The electricity generated is 100 percent renewable, with a long-term goal of feeding the energy directly into the train traction system, thereby maximizing on-site consumption during peak daylight hours when traffic is heaviest.

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The system consists of 48 solar modules with a total capacity of 18 kilowatts and is expected to generate around 16,000 kWh of electricity per year.

“By integrating photovoltaic systems into the railway ecosystem, it becomes possible to directly power trains with renewable energy, as well as supply charging stations for electric vehicles – all while reducing CO₂ emissions and increasing the energy independence of a country’s public transport system,” said Sun-Ways in a statement.

The project follows approval from the Swiss Federal Office of Transport (FOT) in 2024, which granted permission to begin testing after a ten-month technical review. The installation represents the first application of this technology under real-world traffic conditions.

The three-year pilot phase will allow Sun-Ways and its partners to gather essential data on system performance and safety. If successful, the system could be expanded across 5,000 kilometers of Switzerland’s railway network.

Energy portal

Solar Energy Leads the Way to Achieving the Goal – Tripling Renewables by 2030

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (mrganso)

In the newly published Global Market Outlook for Solar Power 2025–2029 by SolarPower Europe, for the first time, the forecast horizon has been extended to 2030. This moment is recognized as a key turning point in achieving global climate goals, with solar energy emerging as the most significant driver of the transition toward climate neutrality.

At the COP28 conference held in December 2023, more than 130 countries agreed to triple global renewable energy capacity by 2030, aiming to reach a total of 11 TW of installed capacity. It is already widely accepted that solar energy will play a leading role in meeting this target.

As previously reported, solar energy achieved remarkable results in 2024, reaching a global installed capacity of 2.2 TW. According to the report’s medium scenario, global solar capacity is expected to exceed 7 TW by 2030. This would mean solar energy would account for around 65 percent of the total capacity targeted at COP28.

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To meet the medium scenario, approximately 800 GW of new solar capacity must be installed annually from now until 2030. While this goal appears highly ambitious, past forecasts have underestimated the pace of development in the solar industry. Capacity growth has exceeded expectations, giving solar power a realistic chance of achieving what currently seems like an extremely challenging goal.

Further opportunity for solar expansion is created by the growing demand for electricity, driven by the rise of artificial intelligence, the increasing number of data centers, and the wider adoption of electric vehicles and electric heating. The report emphasizes that this will further increase the need for flexible and cost-competitive energy sources, with solar energy taking center stage.

In addition to market dynamics, government policies will play a crucial role – particularly those that mandate rooftop solar installations as a requirement.

Energy portal

Meet Cork – The Material of the 21st Century

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Ben-Kerckx)

The planet is rapidly changing, facing challenges such as climate change and the depletion of natural resources. We need solutions that balance economic growth and environmental protection. In the search for better alternatives, the outer bark of the cork oak tree stands out as a versatile material that benefits both nature and industry—known as cork.

Unlike most trees, where the trunk must be cut down to obtain the desired material, the cork oak provides cork without permanent damage. The first harvest is possible only when the tree reaches about 25 years of age, and the highest-quality cork is obtained after the third harvest when the tree is over 40 years old. This cycle is repeated approximately every nine years, and throughout a 200-year lifespan, the tree can undergo about 17 harvests. The process of removing the bark is carried out by skilled professionals who carefully extract it without harming the tree’s vital structure. Over time, the bark regenerates, returning to almost its original state or even improving in quality.

Beyond its ability to regenerate and extend its own lifespan, the cork oak plays a crucial role in combating climate change. Estimates show that cork oak forests worldwide can absorb up to 14 million tons of CO2 annually, helping to reduce the greenhouse effect. Portugal, the country with the largest area of cork oak forests, covering one-third of the world’s total cork oak population, leverages these benefits both economically and environmentally. Portugal is responsible for more than half of global cork production and is the leading cork producer. Over 700 companies in Portugal are directly dependent on this industry, provi – ding thousands of jobs.

For this reason, at the end of 2011, the cork oak was officially declared Portugal’s national tree, even though it has been legally protected since the 13th century.

 IN FOCUS:

Structure and Properties of Cork

The microscopic air chambers within the structure of cork give it excepti – onal lightness and elasticity. In just one cubic centimeter, millions of tiny cells can be filled with air or gases of similar composition, providing cork with thermal and sound insulation properties, moisture resistance, and the ability to slow down the spread of fire. Thanks to these characteri stics, cork is an almost ideal material for various industries—from construction and interior design to technologically advanced sectors such as the automotive and aerospace industries. Cork is even one of the key components in spacecraft precisely because of its outstanding thermal insulation properties, as rockets experience extremely high temperatures during launch.

In recent decades, eco-friendly construction has increasingly recognized cork as a material of the future. Due to its insulating properties, cork boards and tiles are used for flooring, wall coverings, and even in humid environments such as kitchens and bathrooms. While many believe cork is delicate and prone to damage, its elasticity and self-restoring structure often prevent permanent dents. If significant damage does occur, only the damaged segment can be replaced, significantly extending the lifespan of the surface. Additionally, the surface layer of cork hardly retains dust or mites, making it an excellent choice for people prone to allergies and asthma.

For decades, cork has been widely known as the material used for bottle stoppers, but its applications have expanded significantly. In the home appliance industry, cork serves as an excellent thermal and sound insulator. At the same time, properties such as buoyancy and elasticity in marine applications make it ideal for buoys, pontoons, and boat components, where lightweight and water-resistant materials are required.

Prepared by Milica Vučković

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine CIRCULAR ECONOMY

A Mobile Game That Teaches Us About Sustainable Aquaculture and Marine Resource Conservation

Photo-illustration: Freepik (frimufilms - AI generated)

Learning doesn’t always have to come from textbooks, nor does it need to be strict, systematic, or imposed. Sometimes the most meaningful lessons are absorbed when we least expect it – while relaxing, having fun, or simply spending time doing what we enjoy most. Lately, I’ve noticed that even popular TV series increasingly weave in environmental messages – subtly, yet clearly enough to inspire reflection. Perhaps this quiet approach is actually one of the most effective ways to transfer knowledge.

We know that children and young people today spend a large part of their free time playing video games. This often sparks debate about their influence – with frequent criticism that games encourage violence, aggression, or passivity. But what if games could also educate and shape awareness – not through strict rules, but through play and enjoyment?

One such game was created as part of the BlueAquaEdu project, funded by the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF). Unlike games where players fight villains like zombies or monsters to become heroes, the battle in BlueAquaEdu is quieter but equally important – here, the player faces bad habits and unsustainable practices developed by humans over years, which have endangered marine life. Instead of weapons, their tools are knowledge, strategy, and ecological awareness. The goal is not to defeat an enemy, but to find the best solutions together with nature – to build a fish farm that doesn’t pollute, overuse resources, or threaten plant and animal life.

But what exactly is a fish farm? It’s a controlled environment where fish are bred for human consumption – a process known as aquaculture. Today, aquaculture accounts for an increasing share of global fish production, but if not properly managed, it can negatively impact the environment – from water pollution and the spread of disease to the endangerment of wild species.

At the beginning of the game, the player is given a small, environmentally unfriendly fish farm, and throughout the game learns how to improve it in the best possible way. The aim is to reduce the environmental impact of aquaculture and minimize greenhouse gas emissions.

This game, which will soon be available, is part of a broader digital educational project focused on developing skills and knowledge in the field of aquaculture. As part of the BlueAquaEdu project, an e-learning platform is also being developed, offering innovative tools and training materials, as well as mentorship opportunities. The platform is intended for students, professors, and mentors, and through it, up to 500 individuals will have the chance to improve their knowledge of sustainable fish farming practices. In addition, the project promotes international cooperation through the organization of workshops, training sessions, and summer schools.

The core goal of the BlueAquaEdu project is to increase young people’s interest in the blue economy – all activities and sectors related to the sea and water resources, but in a way that respects the principles of sustainability and environmental protection.

Katarina Vuinac

EU aims to end Russian energy imports, new dependence on U.S. gas raises concern

Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik)

The European Commission presented a new strategy on May 6, 2025, aimed at completely ending imports of Russian energy by the end of 2027.

The strategy outlines several key directions:

A full halt to imports of Russian gas, oil, coal, and uranium by 2027; a temporary replacement of Russian energy sources with LNG – including increased imports from the U.S., Qatar, and other allies, a move that has already sparked controversy due to its environmental and geopolitical implications; accelerated construction of wind and solar power plants; an increase in energy efficiency – through additional investments in the modernization of buildings, industry, and infrastructure, with the goal of reducing gas and electricity consumption; a crackdown on the so-called “shadow” imports of Russian energy via third countries; and also, a complete phase-out of Russian nuclear fuel imports – with support for the transition of nuclear reactors in member states that currently rely on Russian supplies.

More:

Although the document highlights that EU member states have made significant progress in reducing their dependence on Russian fossil fuels, data shows that imports of Russian gas increased by 18 percent in 2024, and that Russia still supplies about 13 percent of the EU’s total gas needs. A particular challenge lies in the aforementioned “shadow” tankers and informal energy flows via third countries, for which the EU still lacks a concrete solution.

The European Environmental Bureau (EEB) welcomes the EU’s determination to continue the phase-out of Russian energy – even if a peace agreement is reached – pointing out that the EU still spends hundreds of millions of euros every week on Russian fossil fuels. However, the EEB warns that replacing Russian coal and gas with American fracked gas is not a sustainable solution from either a security or economic perspective.

As noted, the Commission’s plan also includes ending imports of Russian uranium, as part of a broader package of measures to strengthen the Union’s energy security. Critics, however, argue that this is a unique opportunity for the EU to make a strategic leap toward its own renewable energy capacities and reduce reliance on distant and unreliable energy sources.

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