The Trans-Balkan Electricity Corridor in Serbia is a strategic initiative under Chapters 21 (Trans-European Networks) and 15 (Energy) of the EU acquis, aimed at strengthening regional energy connectivity and aligning with the EU’s Green Agenda and the Central and South-Eastern Europe Energy Connectivity (CESEC) initiative. Key infrastructure developments, including 400kV transmission lines connecting Bajina Bašta to Obrenovac, Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina, are critical to sustainable connectivity and regional energy security. Supported by the WBIF (KfW lead) and national funding, with a total investment of EUR 99.7 million, the project is expected to be completed by 2027 delivering significant benefits to Serbia and its neighbors.

In this context, UNOPS provides advisory support to ensure the successful implementation of the corridor project. Core activities include reviewing technical documentation, developing risk management and operational plans, and guiding the preparation of engineering designs and construction methodologies. The work also enhances project management by recommending improvements to project controls, monitoring systems and health and safety procedures, as well as advising on procurement and contract strategies.

The goal of the assignment is to facilitate robust project execution, ensuring alignment with EU funding requirements and long-term sustainability objectives. This includes meeting benchmarks in energy market legislation, mandatory oil stocks and national energy and climate planning under Chapter 15, as well as demonstrating institutional capacity and strategy adoption for network development under Chapter 21.

The assignment directly supports SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy by improving Serbia’s energy transmission capacity, enabling greater integration of renewable energy and reducing reliance on non-renewable sources.

The assignment also aligns with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure by advancing the Trans-Balkan Corridor project, enhancing sustainable energy infrastructure and improving project management and efficiency.