Since June 2024, the Knowledge for Reform Action in the Western Balkans (K4R) Programme has conducted a series of critical field missions and experts’ support to Serbia aimed to enhance collaboration with key governmental bodies, such as the Ministry of Mining and Energy (MoME) and the Ministry of European Integration.

As the main goal of the missions, discussions were geared towards identifying areas for concrete support and establishing priorities to advance the country's energy sector, in line with the EU enlargement strategy and Serbia’s Reform Agenda.

From June 11 to 14, the K4R Programme team, led by Jochen Penker, held productive meetings with several high-level officials in Belgrade, including Ms. Jovana Joksimović, Acting Assistant Minister for International Cooperation and European Integration at MoME, H.E. Ms. Kristin Melsom, Ambassador of Norway to Serbia, and Mr. Nicola Bertolini, Head of Cooperation in the EU Delegation. Among other action points, the meetings focused on the planned rollout of a “Centre of Excellence” on EU Affairs. A significant outcome from these discussions was the authorities’ support for establishing the Centre of Excellence, which aims to enhance Serbia’s capacity to upscale EU accession efforts. 

The mission then continued with another round of meetings, from June 19 to 21, to consolidate support mechanisms and explore future cooperation with MoME and the Energy Agency of the Republic of Serbia (AERS). Discussions with the beneficiary representatives delved into the structure of Serbia's electricity sector and strategies to enhance market efficiency and competitiveness, including through market-friendly ways of supporting renewable energy generation and attracting investment. The discussions also underscored the need for technical support to provide Serbian officials with in-depth knowledge and best practices from the EU Internal Electricity Market. These efforts are crucial for aligning Serbia's energy policies with EU standards, fostering regional cooperation and fostering sustainable energy development.