The necessity of faster regional networking, cooperation between private public sector, the challenges of the global crisis, perspectives that are still open in the energy sector – these are the most important topics that were discussed at the international conference “Energy in the Balkans: Transition to renewable energy sources and improvement of energy networks”.
Head of the EU Delegation to Serbia, Ambassador Emanuele Giaufret reminded of the importance of good cooperation with Serbia for EU economic growth, which is impossible without stable energy sector.
“Since Serbia is on its European path, we have done a lot together. Sixty percent of trade Serbia performs with the European Union. Also EU is also the biggest donor to Serbia. Of great importance for the EU is diversification of energy.
The European Commission has proposed a “REPowerEU” plan, which is based on diversification of gas resources and rapid reduction of dependence on fossil fuels.
“We invest in new gas interconnection between Serbia and Bulgaria in order to open the possibility for the supply of gas from multiple sources. This is a priority project for the European Union and the initiative to link the countries of Central Europe, South-East (CESEC). The project is supported with nearly 50 million EU grant funds, with 25 million euro loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB),” said ambassador Giaufret.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Mining, Energy Zorana Mihajlovic said that energy, especially renewable energy sector, crucial for economic development, investment, new jobs, especially in moments of crisis.
“Together with investors, our partners from the Italy, we have discussed the bilateral relations, enhancing cooperation in the energy sector. Since 2009, Serbia and Italy are strategic partners, nearly 50 thousand people in Serbia are employed by the Italian companies. It is important to increase investment in energy, primarily in renewable,” said Mihajlovic, and added “We have a completely new legislative framework, praised by the whole of Europe, especially the law on the use of renewable energy sources. We have all the conditions for new investments. Now is the time to launch a brand new investment cycle with both the public sector and private companies involved in it.”
Photo: europa.rs