Serbia is accelerating the modernization of its electricity distribution network with the nationwide rollout of smart electricity meters, supported by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the European Union (EU) and the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF).
More than 900,000 customers connected to Serbia’s electricity distribution network now have smart meters. The rollout is being implemented by Elektrodistribucija Srbije (EDS) and is helping improve electricity services for households while strengthening the management and reliability of the country’s power grid.
A joint EBRD and EU delegation recently visited Niš, one of Serbia’s leading cities for smart meter coverage, to observe the benefits of the programme. The delegation included Francesco Corbo, EBRD Regional Head of Energy for the Western Balkans and Croatia, and Andreas von Beckerath, EU Ambassador to Serbia.
Smart meters provide more accurate electricity consumption data, improve billing transparency and allow customers to better understand and manage their energy use. For the distribution company, the technology provides improved visibility of the network and supports more efficient grid management.
The initial phase of the large-scale meter replacement programme received €110 million in EU grants. The rollout was later supported by a €40 million EBRD loan. Preparations are also underway to replace a further 400,000 meters with financing from the European Investment Bank.
During the visit to Niš, representatives from the EBRD and EU visited a residential building where 140 smart meters have been installed. The project is part of a wider effort to digitalise Serbia’s electricity infrastructure and prepare the grid for changing energy consumption patterns.
Francesco Corbo said modernising distribution networks is essential for Serbia’s transition towards a more efficient, resilient and low-carbon energy system. He added that smart meters can support greater renewable energy integration and enable consumers to participate more actively in the electricity system.
EU Ambassador Andreas von Beckerath highlighted practical benefits for citizens, including more accurate bills, easier access to consumption information and better control over household energy costs. He noted that rooftop solar, heat pumps, electric vehicles and local energy communities are expected to increasingly influence how electricity is produced and consumed.
EDS Acting Director Biljana Komnenić said around €200 million has so far been invested in smart meter installations across Serbia. Almost one in four meters is now read remotely.
EDS has also decided that every new electricity connection should include a smart meter. The company plans to launch a portal this autumn, allowing all smart meter users to continuously monitor their electricity consumption and improve energy efficiency.
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