BELGRADE — Serbia is taking concrete steps toward aligning its energy infrastructure with European decarbonization goals by exploring the integration of hydrogen into its national gas transmission network. The country’s gas system operator, Transportgas Srbija, has officially launched a public call for a feasibility study that will examine the technical, operational, and economic conditions under which hydrogen can be blended with natural gas.
This strategic initiative places Serbia in step with energy transition priorities across the European continent, while also addressing the country’s long-term goals for energy security and diversification.
According to Transportgas Srbija, the study will evaluate the capacity of existing transmission infrastructure to carry hydrogen — in pure or blended form — and assess the implications for system integrity, energy loss, and industrial compatibility. The move reflects the growing relevance of hydrogen as a transitional and, potentially, primary energy vector in Southeastern Europe.
A central objective of the study is to determine the maximum safe blending ratio of hydrogen with natural gas that can be achieved without endangering pipeline infrastructure or industrial end-users. Special attention will be given to key domestic consumers, including the Hesteelworks Železara Smederevo steel plant, Pančevo Oil Refinery, and a number of power generation and district heating facilities. The impact of hydrogen-enriched gas on their technical operations will be a major criterion in shaping future energy policy.
The consultant to be selected will also be tasked with:
- defining technical procedures for blending,
- identifying optimal injection points,
- and proposing locations for hydrogen production and storage on Serbian territory.
Another critical dimension of the study is the assessment of Serbia’s pipeline transport capacity, including the potential impact of gas from multiple sources — notably the Balkan Stream pipeline and the interconnector with Bulgaria. These routes have already diversified Serbia’s gas supply portfolio and may influence blending feasibility due to differing gas qualities.
Beyond technical diagnostics, the report will include recommendations for regulatory reform and strategic investment priorities, such as infrastructure upgrades and the construction of new pipeline segments where necessary.
Interested consultants have until 23 July to submit their bids. Once the contract is awarded, the selected firm will have 180 days to complete the comprehensive analysis.
This project reinforces Serbia’s intention to modernize its energy system while actively participating in the regional debate on hydrogen’s role in achieving net-zero targets across Southeast Europe.
