Rehabilitation of Bistrica Hydropower Plant

Following Serbia’s commitment to align its regulations with EU environmental legislation, the hydroelectric power plant Bistrica, operational since 1960, will be rehabilitated. This investment project aims to modernise the plant and increase its efficiency, boosting its annual power generation to 350 GWh. Besides enhancing energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, this strategic project also contributes to Serbia’s adherence to international agreements such as the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement. The upgraded hydroelectric power plant would back up wind and solar power plants, enabling the integration of more renewable energy into Serbia’s grid. Ultimately, this project aligns with Serbia’s broader energy strategy to achieve a 49.6% share of renewable energy sources by 2040.

HPP Bistrica is the third stage in the system of hydropower utilization of the water of the Uvac River, it is the largest HPP in the system of Lim hydropower plants built in 1960. The plant is located on the right bank of the river Lim. he installed power of this power plant is 2x51,3 MW, and the annual production is about 335GWh. Since the hydroelectric power plant has been in operation for more than 60 years, there is a urgent need for its rehabilitation.

The rehabilitation implies keeping the same installed power of the power plant while increasing efficiency by replacing old aggregates with new ones, as well as reducing malfunctions by replacing auxiliary equipment. Greater efficiency of aggregates with the same power conditions implies better exploitation of water resources. It is estimated that the efficiency of the aggregates will increase 3-5% directly increasing annual power generation to about 350 GWh. It also reduces the emission of harmful gases. Moreover, it allows PE EPS to increase RES share in its generation portfolio.

Completion of rehabilitation of HPP Bistrica is expected in 2027.

The EU co-funds the investments under Flagship 4 - Renewable energy - of the Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans through the WBIF.