Presentation of the Danube GeoHeCo Transnational Action Plan in Novi Sad

Photo by RDA Backa

Novi Sad, March 25, 2026 – At the Science and Technology Park in Novi Sad, as part of the Forum on Regional Development of AP Vojvodina 2026, a presentation of the Danube GeoHeCo project – the Transnational Action Plan (TAP) – was held, focusing on the key priorities and measures defined for the Republic of Serbia.

The presentation was attended by numerous representatives of ministries, provincial institutions, local self-governments, regional development agencies, scientific and higher education institutions, and other relevant stakeholders. On behalf of the partners from the Republic of Serbia, representatives of the project teams from RDA Bačka, REDASP, and FEK presented the main elements of the project and the achieved results.

During the TAP presentation, participants were introduced to the identified barriers to the wider use of renewable energy sources (RES) in Serbia, as well as the defined priorities in the areas of resources and regulation, technology and design, education and training, financing, and awareness raising, along with the planned activities within these priority areas.

Photo by RDA Backa

The conclusions of the presentation emphasize that, although Serbia has significant potential for shallow geothermal energy, particularly in the Pannonian Basin region, its use remains at a modest level. Findings from the Serbia report indicate that regulatory complexity, institutional fragmentation, and insufficient financial incentives are the main challenges.

The Transnational Action Plan provides a structured framework for overcoming these barriers. Through coordinated simplification of regulations, demonstration projects, financial mechanisms, and strengthening institutional capacities, Serbia can significantly increase the deployment of shallow geothermal energy in the period from 2026 to 2035.

It was emphasized that unlocking the full potential of shallow geothermal energy requires ensuring transparent control mechanisms, compliance with legal standards, and a genuine—not merely formal—commitment to environmental protection.