Solar energy is poised to play a vital role in Serbia’s environmental and economic transition, providing households and communities with a sustainable path toward a greener future. By leveraging solar technology, individuals can reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower energy costs, and actively contribute to cleaner air and environmental protection.

In Serbia, the rise of prosumers—individuals who both produce and consume energy—has highlighted the potential of solar power to drive the green transition. Beyond its environmental benefits, solar energy brings economic advantages, supports local communities, and fosters long-term energy independence.

However, challenges remain. Misconceptions about the feasibility and reliability of solar panels persist, and many households are unaware of the financial and environmental benefits of adopting this technology. The current regulatory framework also underscores the urgency of taking advantage of favorable conditions before policy changes in 2027.

In an exclusive interview, a Serbian prosumer shares her journey into solar energy, demystifies the process of becoming a prosumer, and discusses how solar technology is transforming lives and communities across Serbia.

1. What inspired you to work with solar energy, and what do you like most about this technology?

“I was inspired by the opportunity to produce clean, green energy on our own roof and use it in our household for our needs. The main driver was environmental protection, but of course, the economic benefits are also significant.”

2. What are the main steps involved in installing a solar panel system for a typical household?

“For households interested in becoming prosumers—simultaneously energy producers and consumers—the process begins with finding an installer and selecting a suitable offer based on cost, equipment quality, and warranty. After installation, the engaged company handles the necessary procedures, which typically take one to two months for households.”

3. How does becoming a prosumer benefit individuals and communities?

“For individuals, it brings satisfaction from generating energy from green sources and economic benefits. For local communities, it means a cleaner environment and improved air quality, particularly in winter when fossil fuel-based heating can be replaced with heat pumps combined with solar energy—currently the cheapest heating option, being four times cheaper than gas and significantly cheaper than coal and wood. On a broader scale, it accelerates the energy transition, reduces reliance on electricity imports, and decreases fossil fuel-based energy production. This benefits not only households but society as a whole.”

4. What are the biggest misconceptions people have about solar energy?

“The most common misconception is that installing solar power systems is not cost-effective for households. Another is the belief that solar panels cannot generate enough electricity or that they are unreliable. Experience shows these assumptions are incorrect, and under current conditions, installing a solar power system offers numerous benefits.”

5. What advice would you give to someone considering installing solar panels but unsure about the process or benefits?

“Becoming a producer of electricity for personal needs as soon as possible is essential, as current conditions are the most favorable they will ever be. Changes announced to take effect on January 1, 2027, will not apply to those who become prosumers or enter the process before that date.”

This interview showcases the real-world impact of solar energy in Serbia, highlighting its potential for both individual households and communities. By embracing this technology now, Serbia is taking crucial steps toward a sustainable and energy-independent future.

#EU4Green #GreenSkills #SolarEnergy #Sustainability #Serbia

Nenad Maričić

Prosumer from Serbia