Serbia lithium energy storage power supply procurement

Why did Serbia and the EU sign a lithium mining deal?

Serbia and the EU struck a deal to develop a lithium mining project, securing a crucial supply for producing electric batteries.

Will Serbia's lithium exports go to the EU?

According to Vučić, Serbia’s lithium exports will go exclusively to the EU for now, despite strong Chinese interest. Serbia has been trying to join the EU since 2012, but tensions with Kosovo have delayed this. Until recently, European institutions, media and NGO’s depicted Vučić as an authoritarian ruler.

Why are people protesting about lithium mining in Serbia?

Mass protests have in particular reflected popular environmental concerns about the mine. Serbian activists labeled their government’s decision to allow lithium mining “an epic crime against people and nature”. Lithium mining consumes large amounts of water, while the extraction process can also pollute groundwater.

What is Europe's largest lithium reserve?

Brussels Signal (@brusselssignal) November 8, 2023 According to Serbian media, the Jadar mine holds Europe’s largest reserve of lithium, with potential to produce up to 58,000 metric tons of lithium annually. This is sufficient for manufacturing batteries for approximately 1.1 million electric vehicles.

Will Serbia's 'biggest investment ever' bring economic growth?

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also praised the mining project, worth €6 billion in direct investment for Serbia. The deal, “by far the biggest investment ever” in his country, will bring huge economic growth to Serbia, said Vučić.

Who are the leaders of Serbia & the EU?

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and European Commission Executive Vice-President Maros Sefcovic in Belgrade July 19. (Photo: EPA-EFE/Andrej Cukic) Serbia and the EU announced a major deal June 19 to develop a joint lithium mining project.