In line with Serbia’s commitments under EU accession Chapter 15 (Energy) and the broader goals of the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans, UNOPS supported the Ministry of Mining and Energy (MoME) of the Republic of Serbia to improve the targeting and protection of vulnerable energy consumers. This support addressed the transposition of Article 28 of Directive (EU) 2019/944 into national legislation, which focused on the rights and support measures for vulnerable customers. It was linked to Serbia’s broader obligations under the Energy Community Treaty and EU Electricity Integration Package, and aimed to ensure equitable access to energy services.

The goal of the assignment was to support the MoME in defining, assessing, and enhancing the framework for protecting vulnerable customers in Serbia. The K4R programme aimed to provide strategic feedback on energy poverty, supporting the development of clear guidance on the implementation of EU standards, and ensuring alignment with Article 28 of Directive (EU) 2019/944. Specific objectives included analyzing the Serbian context, mapping key stakeholders and resources, assessing existing policies, and identifying regulatory gaps.

In the context of programme support, twelve stakeholder interviews were conducted, and both national and international best practices were analyzed. Key recommendations were delivered, including proposals for building local capacities, enhancing data systems, and expanding the scope of support measures. A timetable for transposition of Article 28 into Serbian law was also proposed, aligning with Serbia’s EU Reform Agenda and the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans.

UNOPS experts have delivered significant results, providing Serbia with a solid foundation for continued reforms in protecting energy-vulnerable consumers. Amendments to the Energy Law incorporating a legal definition of energy poverty marked a historic milestone and the developed documents — including the stakeholder map, resource mapping, and the current situation assessment — will serve as the groundwork for a future national Action Plan for Energy Poverty. In this context, a structured pathway for implementation was provided, with clear institutional responsibilities and milestones that can guide future reforms.

The assignment directly supported SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions by enhancing Serbia’s governance and institutional capacity through improved strategic and legal frameworks for EU alignment. The assignment also supported SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy by helping Serbia align its energy policy with EU standards, expand renewable energy and improve energy efficiency, ensuring access to sustainable and modern energy for all.