World Bank approves $600 million for Serbia’s gas sector — first phase kicks off with the Trupale–Pojate pipeline

The World Bank’s executive board of directors has approved $600 million for Serbia’s Gas Sector Development Program. The program seeks to improve the security, reliability and sustainability of energy supply through investments in strategic gas infrastructure, sector reforms and the strengthening of institutions.

The program will be implemented over ten years through a multi-phase programmatic approach. Other development partners and the private sector are expected to join the initiative, expanding its impact and financial sustainability.

The program’s focus is on removing bottlenecks in gas transmission, upgrading underground gas storage infrastructure, strengthening governance mechanisms and improving regulatory and planning frameworks — in line with Serbia’s energy development plan and its future European Union membership objectives.

The head of the World Bank’s office in Serbia, Aysha Williams, underscored the role of natural gas during the energy transition. “Natural gas plays an important role during the transition period, during which Serbia will reduce its dependence on coal and petroleum derivatives and increase the use of alternative sources, including renewables,” she said, adding: “The biggest beneficiaries of this program will be households, businesses, industrial consumers and heating plants across the country. Greater energy security will contribute to economic growth, private sector development and job creation.”