Serbia’s Minister of Mining and Energy Dubravka Đedović Handanović held discussions with a World Bank delegation regarding the rollout of the EUR 1B gas program, with talks centered on the implementation of the program’s first phase. The meeting covered plans for constructing the first section of the Niš-Velika Plana gas pipeline, alongside discussions on financing arrangements and the overall management structure for the project. The EUR 1B gas program is intended to strengthen the country’s gas infrastructure while supporting institutional development and reform initiatives through cooperation with the World Bank.
Outlining the objectives of the initiative, Handanović said, “We are working on concrete steps to launch a one billion euro project through which we will strengthen and modernize the internal gas infrastructure, institutional capacities and provide support for reform activities with the World Bank.”
“In the first phase, we will build the first section of the Niš-Velika Plana gas pipeline. The new gas pipelines that we build through this project will enable us to use the full potential of gas interconnections with neighboring countries, which means greater energy security, as well as strengthening our position as a transit country and gas hub in this part of Europe, which also brings us greater revenues. The southern and eastern parts of the country will gain greater access to gas, which is important for the development of industry and attracting investments,” she added.
Future Phases to Expand Capacity and Strengthen Project Coordination
The Minister explained that subsequent stages of the EUR 1B gas program are designed to expand the capacity of the existing natural gas transport network while also providing for the construction of compressor stations and the enlargement of underground gas storage capacities. According to her, these measures are expected to improve system security, reinforce regional connectivity, and enhance the flexibility of the overall gas system.
Discussions with the World Bank delegation also addressed the financing process and the organization of project management as preparations continue.
“The working group for project coordination will consist of representatives of the Ministry of Mining and Energy, gas sector companies “Gas Infrastructure”, “Transportgas”, “Srbijagas” and other relevant parties. Until funding is approved, this working group will coordinate the preparation and implementation of the project, so that all activities are carried out within the planned deadlines,” she said.
The meeting further reviewed the implementation timeline for the EUR 1B gas program, including the World Bank’s financing approval procedure, the establishment of a project implementation unit, and the institutional support required to advance the initiative.
