The power supply remains stable and is expected to stay secure in the coming period, despite highly challenging conditions on the Danube River. "Elektroprivreda Srbije" has implemented all necessary measures, and citizens and the economy have no cause for concern, stated Dusan
Živković, General Manager of „Elektroprivreda Srbije", during an appearance on RTS Morning News.
Živković explained that all thermal power capacities are operational, except for two units currently undergoing maintenance, while hydro power plants are operating in accordance with water inflows.
HPP Đerdap 1 is currently operating at 20 percent of its usual output due to a historically low inflow of 1,400 cubic meters, while Đerdap 2 is at approximately 30 percent. The period of low inflows will certainly continue. Elektroprivreda Srbije prepared itself for such scenarios on time, but it is important to understand that low winter snowfall in the Alps leads to this type of hydrology during spring and summer,"
Živković explained.
The EPS chief pointed out that all measures were taken in a timely manner to maintain continuity of supply by securing the necessary electricity volumes on the market. The primary objective is to maintain water reservoirs and coal disposals at current levels to ensure supply from domestic capacities.
Živković emphasized that electricity consumption is expected to rise to approximately 100 GWh in the coming days, adding that EPS is fully prepared to cover this demand using its own capacities.
Regarding electricity imports,
Živković explained that shortfalls are strictly limited to what the hydropower plants—particularly Đerdap, the country's largest hydro capacity—cannot produce, requiring imports of around ten percent from the market. He also noted that the entire region is facing a complex energy situation, particularly regarding regional nuclear power plants.
"I would appeal to and ask our citizens, as the Prime Minister and the Minister have already done, to consume electricity slightly more rationally. I believe that mindful consumption will not compromise comfort, but this is a moment where we must raise our level of responsibility,"
Živković said.
As for winter readiness,
Živković stated that preparations for the summer season have been completed, while intensive system preparations for the winter season are underway. All maintenance works on coal systems have been finalized, the Kostolac coal disposal is at 100 percent capacity, and production at Kolubara remains high. He highlighted that coal disposals at TENT are at 70 percent capacity and that fuel oil reserves will be replenished in the coming period to ensure full readiness for the winter season.
Živković assessed that uncertainty in the energy market will inevitably increase, making new investments essential.
"Diversification, energy security, and energy sovereignty are our priorities. The projects we have been communicating for some time—ranging from the 1 GW solar power plant and the Niš gas power plant to the PSHPP Bistrica and Đerdap 3—aim at enabling us to maintain energy security and bridge this crisis period,"
Živković concluded.
