The Serbian Ministry of Mines and Energy invited consultants to analyze existing nuclear energy technologies, including small modular reactors. The country's top officials intend to repeal the 1989 ban.

Given the growing demand for energy in the coming decades, coupled with accelerating electrification of economic activity, an increasing share of renewables in the grid and a reduction in coal power production, the Ministry of Mines and Energy says nuclear energy needs to be seen as an equal option and can contribute to a stable supply of low-carbon electricity in addition to hydro energy and natural gas, which is seen as a transition fuel. It launched a public purchase order entitled "Preliminary technical research for the peaceful use of nuclear energy in the Republic of Serbia".

Consultants have until July 16 to apply for a "thorough comparative and credible analysis of the technical options available in the market, including small modular reactors (SMRS)," and recommend solutions. Since 1989, Serbia has had a ban on the construction of nuclear power plants and facilities for the production of nuclear fuel, as well as the disposal of spent nuclear fuel for nuclear power plants.

Top state officials, led by President Aleksandar Vucic, intend to repeal the law and consider the possibility of installing one or more reactors. The next step is to involve the scientific and academic communities, a task that can be completed in 12 weeks.

Serbia can benefit from the expertise and experience of the international nuclear energy community. The Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan (INECP or NECP), which is currently being developed, includes a scenario for introducing nuclear energy into the national energy mix. Relevant ministries and members of the scientific and academic communities will sign a memorandum of understanding to develop a framework for cross-institutional cooperation, knowledge exchange and human resource development, the document said.

In its assessment, Serbia is drawing on the practice of the International Atomic Energy Agency. The ministry stressed that the country can also benefit from the expertise and experience of the international nuclear energy community.

Fourth generation reactors are not considered. This research needs to cover traditional third-generation and above nuclear power plants as well as more advanced technologies such as small modular reactors. Fourth-generation reactors, however, will not be included, "taking into account time-to-market standards, technological and supply chain maturity, and operational and maintenance challenges that new entrants such as Serbia will encounter when dealing with this technology," according to the project mission sheet.

The selected contractor will be responsible for a comprehensive assessment of the potential benefits and challenges of building nuclear power plants from a grid perspective, taking into account the possible integration of the domestic electricity market with the European single market in 2026, the ministry said. The consultant is tasked with calculating historical and target costs per unit, detailing the supply chain and evaluating potential project partners. Editor/Xu Shengpeng