Small hydropower plants in Serbia: Hydropower potential, current state and perspectives

The utilization of renewable resources for energy production is a very topical issue in Serbia, both among experts and among the public. Having in mind that hydropower potential is considered the most important renewable resource (31,000 GWh per year) which is only partially exploited (10,000 GWh per year), accent is laid on the possibilities for its complete utilization through construction of small hydropower plants (SHPs). Accordingly, the paper presents the historical development of SHPs in Serbia, the current situation, an overview of the institutional, legal and planning framework regulating the selection of suitable locations, permit issuing procedures and functioning of SHPs. The study includes an overview of 31 active SHPs in Serbia and 21 locations at which construction of new facilities has been planned and approved by the responsible ministry. Special attention has been paid to the prospects for the development of SHPs through an analysis of hydropower potential and possible locations for the construction of new facilities in various regions and municipalities in Serbia, as well as to the complementary utilization of water management facilities for energy production. In conclusion, the paper points out practical problems that hinder and impede further development of the network of SHPs and suggests possible ways to overcome them.