In the context of its EU accession, Serbia is aligning its energy sector with EU standards under Chapter 15 (Energy). This process has been supported by the Energy Community, which extends EU energy policies to neighboring regions, including the Western Balkans, with a view to boost energy diversification, security of supply and sustainability. The assignment aimed to strengthen Serbia’s institutional and legal framework to meet evolving EU energy requirements and its implications for climate, with a focus on reducing energy dependency, expanding renewables and improving energy efficiency. Key benchmarks included adopting the Electricity Integration Package, certifying the gas Transmission System Operator (TSO) and aligning laws on oil stocks, renewable energy and energy efficiency. A key deliverable has been a comprehensive guidance document that provided a roadmap for Serbia’s energy policy alignment, addressing benchmarks, action plans and obligations under the Energy Community and the EU accession process.

he K4R programme provided technical assistance to the Ministry of Mining and Energy (MoME) of Serbia, aiming to conduct research, review and prepare reports on energy and climate-related topics and offer legal and policy guidance for meeting the obligations of the Energy Community framework. The K4R programme delivered multiple outputs in response to MoME’s evolving needs, including tailored legal and policy assessments, coordination with the sector for international cooperation and EU integration, and technical support related to electricity markets, carbon pricing, and dispute resolution.

The K4R expert navigated complex energy and climate policy landscapes, including compliance with the Energy Community Treaty and EU regulations. In addition, UNOPS identified several future priorities, including legal support for institutional meetings, dispute settlement, carbon pricing implementation and alignment with the EU Green Deal.

“It is a great honor that my first project within the K4R Programme, implemented by UNOPS, is dedicated to supporting Serbia’s active participation in the Energy Community. Through this initiative not only am I supporting Serbia to align its national laws and policies with EU energy and climate regulations, but I am also helping to strengthen Serbia’s administrative capacities, ensuring a robust and independent performance beyond the project’s completion. Engaging in complex areas such as electricity market coupling, carbon pricing and contributing to the development of Serbia’s Reform Agenda during a pivotal period of transition in the Serbian energy sector is incredibly fulfilling. The sector’s ongoing transformation and structural evolution present unique challenges, making our work crucial in shaping a sustainable and forward-looking energy landscape for the Republic of Serbia.” Partnerships Advisor - support to participation to the Energy Community, UNOPS K4R Programme

The assignment directly supported SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy by helping Serbia align its energy policies with EU standards, expand renewable energy and improve energy efficiency, ensuring access to sustainable and modern energy for all. The assignment also supported SDG 13: Climate Action by integrating climate considerations into national policies, adopting carbon pricing, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing Serbia’s commitments to international climate agreements. Additionally, the assignment supported SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions by enhancing institutional capacity, improving legal compliance and fostering stronger governance and the rule of law in Serbia’s energy sector.