In an encouraging sign of Serbia's energy transformation, the country's state-owned power utility EPS has launched an exciting initiative to bring solar power to a site once dominated by coal ash. The proposed solar facility would breathe new life into the TENT A ash landfill at the Nikola Tesla A thermal power plant near Obrenovac, showcasing how former industrial sites can become beacons of clean energy.

The tender for a feasibility study and conceptual design marks an important milestone in Serbia's renewable energy journey. What makes this project particularly inspiring is its location—the very grounds where coal ash was once disposed will potentially generate clean, sustainable electricity for thousands of homes. It's a powerful symbol of progress and environmental responsibility.

The project demonstrates serious commitment to quality and longevity. According to tender documents, the solar panels must meet high standards, including minimum power output of 600 watts, efficiency ratings of at least 24 percent, and guaranteed production spanning over 30 years. With approximately 67.2 hectares of land allocated, there's substantial space for a meaningful renewable energy installation that could make a real difference in Serbia's power mix.

This tender is just the beginning of Serbia's ambitious solar vision. Energy Minister Dubravka Đedović Handanović recently shared exciting news about an even larger undertaking—a remarkable 1 gigawatt solar power project set to begin implementation in 2026. This massive initiative, developed in partnership with Hyundai Engineering and UGT Renewables, will encompass six solar plants across Serbia, complemented by advanced battery storage systems capable of storing 200 to 400 megawatt-hours of clean energy.

Serbia is already demonstrating that these aren't just plans on paper. In July 2025, EPS successfully activated its largest operational solar project to date—a 10-megawatt array built on a former mining site in Kostolac, northeastern Serbia. This achievement proves the utility's capability to transform reclaimed land into productive renewable energy infrastructure.

The repurposing of industrial and mining sites for solar development represents a win-win scenario. These locations, which might otherwise remain underutilized, gain new purpose while contributing to climate goals. It also demonstrates thoughtful land use planning that preserves pristine areas while maximizing the potential of already-developed sites.

With the tender deadline set for January 23, Serbia is moving quickly to assess the full potential of this solar opportunity. The contract, valued at approximately $148,472, will provide crucial analysis to ensure the project's success and viability.

As Serbia transitions from its historical reliance on coal-fired power toward a diversified, cleaner energy portfolio, projects like this offer hope for other nations facing similar challenges. The journey from coal ash to solar panels isn't just about changing technology—it's about embracing a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.