Drought cripples production at Serbia's Đerdap hydropower plants; 2026 could be among worst years

Serbia's vital hydropower plants on the Danube River are struggling under the weight of a severe drought, with production at Đerdap 1 and Đerdap 2 significantly impacted. State-owned power company Elektroprivreda Srbije (EPS) acknowledges that the current situation is "hydrologically very difficult," with water inflows into the Danube less than half of the average.

According to EPS, the year 2026 is projected to be one of the worst in the history of these hydroelectric facilities for electricity generation. This follows 2025, which was already recorded as the worst year for both water inflow and production since the plants began operating. Recent months have seen record low monthly production figures for May and June.

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In spite of the fact that all revitalized units in the 'Đerdap 1' hydroelectric power plant are fully operationally ready and use every drop of the Danube to turn it into energy, electricity production on the Danube in 2026, according to the current situation, will be one of the worst in history.

Despite the challenges, EPS emphasizes that the supply of electricity to citizens and businesses remains stable. The company highlighted that the revitalization of the Bajina Bašta reversible hydroelectric power plant has helped mitigate the impact, allowing for energy provision during cheaper, solar-powered hours. However, the low water levels on the Danube are also affecting cooling systems at thermal power plants in Kostolac, leading to reduced output there as well.

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There is no reason for concern because the stability of electricity supply to citizens and businesses is and will be the priority of 'Elektroprivreda Srbije', along with the company's financially sustainable and profitable operation.