21st EUSAIR Thematic Steering Group Meeting on Energy Held in Belgrade

During the meeting, Mr. Tabarelli from Nomisma Energia, the thematic expert selected through a bidding process by FP project partner Friuli Venezia Giulia Region, presented the main indicative contents and future steps for updating the Masterplan on Energy. The strategic importance of energy for the EUSAIR Region and the Western Balkans was emphasized, particularly in light of the severe energy crisis, which has led to soaring prices and supply issues. In this context, the Masterplan is identified as a crucial tool for coordinated energy planning among EUSAIR countries. The strategic vision of the Masterplan focuses on developing an integrated, flexible, and resilient energy system to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Key challenges identified include climate change, energy security, market competitiveness, and universal access to affordable energy services.

Additionally, the coordinators presented a document entitled “Concept Ideas for Priority Studies and Projects on Energy” which aims to provide draft proposals for strategic studies and project ideas based on the priorities identified in the updated Action Plan. It was agreed that the high-priority concept idea, the Renewable Energy Road Map for the Adriatic and Ionian Region, will be developed with the support of the SP4EUSAIR project. In this framework, a capacity-building workshop is being organized on April 30, 2025, to gather input from TSG2 on energy members regarding key implementation needs and expectations, as well as the expert profile and scope of work needed for the preparation of a Terms of Reference (ToR).