Serbia and Germany join forces: Critical mineral resources and energy transition as focus of cooperation

Photo: PROMO

Minister of Mining and Energy Dubravka Djedovic Handanovic and German Ambassador Anke Konrad today spoke about cooperation between the two countries in the field of critical mineral resources and energy transition.

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"Given that Germany is working to open a lithium mine, as well as that Serbia has confirmed reserves of this strategic mineral, we are interested in working on the exchange of knowledge and experience through connecting scientific and educational institutions of the two countries," said the minister.

She recalled that in mid-May, a delegation from her ministry visited Saxony and had meetings with representatives of the Mining Administration of that German province, as well as provincial and federal ministries.

"This visit is one of the steps towards further cooperation between the two sides, considering that we have a mutual interest in developing efficient and environmentally responsible mining,"said Djedovic Handanovic.

She added that the European Commission recently included the Jadar lithium mining project in the list of strategic projects that are not located in the EU, because it can contribute to the diversification of the supply of necessary raw materials to the EU, which are crucial for energy transition.

The minister pointed out that this represents an opportunity for industrial development of Serbia and inclusion in the European value chain in production of batteries and electric vehicles. Djedovic Handanovic also said that the construction of the Kostolac wind park with a capacity of 66 MW is in the final phase.

"All 20 wind turbines have been installed and installation of the cable network is nearing completion. It is necessary to harmonize all the technical parameters so that the wind park can successfully go online in July," she said, adding that it will be the first EPS production facility that will contribute to decarbonization and green energy.

Anke Konrad said during the conversation that her country provides strong support to Serbia in the energy transition and sustainable mining.

She stressed Germany's willingness to exchange knowledge and experience in research and exploitation of mineral resources.

The ambassador said Germany wants to help Serbia develop hydrogen infrastructure and application of hydrogen in industry and other sectors, for which, within the framework of the climate partnership, Germany will provide grants.

(Telegraf Biznis)