Serbia stands at a crossroads: while the world is turning to cleaner energy, our citizens are showing increasing readiness for change – but also fear of the unknown.
According to a major CESID survey, as well as several smaller polls conducted in Serbia, a total of 18% of surveyed citizens would be willing to pay more for water, electricity, and waste removal (sum of responses). On the other hand, less than one-tenth of Serbian citizens believe that electricity in Serbia is produced from clean sources and is not harmful to the environment (8%), while 29% of citizens are aware of the harmfulness of the current method of electricity production in our country, as is every fifth business.
Here’s what the latest research says and how young people can be drivers of the green revolution.
What the surveys say:
- 64% of citizens support wind energy as the most popular renewable source, while 58% would install solar panels on their homes with financial support.
- 34% would agree to a gradual phasing out of coal even with a slight increase in electricity prices – but regions tied to mining and thermal power plants are still hesitant.
- Every second family is considering insulation, but only 24% know about state subsidies and how to obtain them.
At the same time, more than three-quarters of survey participants say they would be willing to invest less than 2,000 euros in insulating their household – 76%. The average amount that Serbian citizens would be willing to invest in household insulation is 1,479.11 euros. Only 17% of Serbian citizens say they are ready to invest if the state subsidizes the insulation of their residential property by 50%.
When it comes to installing renewable energy systems, the average Serbian household is ready to invest a little over 2,000 euros, and only one-fifth would start the installation process with state subsidies; of course, lower material and installation costs would be motivating.
Why are people afraid?
- Lack of information: Many don’t know that solar panels pay off in 9-10 years or that there is a Solar Calculator for free estimates.
- Administrative fear: “Sorting out documentation” and “finding a reliable installer” are the main obstacles to making the leap.
- Generational gap: Older citizens are more likely to doubt the effectiveness of sustainable energy, sticking to what they know and are used to, while young people want to act – but lack resources and often, support from parents, landlords, community representatives, etc.
It’s also useful to note that almost two-thirds of business representatives (63%) have not changed their heating system in the past 10 years, and on average, half of them are satisfied with the existing system, have recently renovated, or simply don’t have the money for such work.
Thirty percent of business representatives stated that a favorable price for procurement and installation would greatly or very greatly influence their decision to undertake energy efficiency improvements.
Youth – The Bridge Between Idea and Action
Here’s how you can change the story:
- Start with your own roof: Show your parents the savings calculation for solar panels. Such a system can reduce bills by 50%.
- Organize education: The Mikser Association and GIZ already offer workshops on energy efficiency, such as those held at the Mikser Festival in Dorćol Platz and Prostor Miljenko Dereta on May 31 and June 1. Get to know experts and individuals who have already started the path you’re preparing for, join in, and use the knowledge you gain to act in your community.
- Be the voice of change: 72% of citizens believe that air pollution affects their health. Share this data on social media and appeal to your surroundings!
Where Have We Fallen Short?
Research by the Faculty of Organizational Sciences reveals:
- Distrust in institutions: Citizens are more likely to trust NGOs than the state in implementing green policies.
- “Green transition is an expensive luxury”: 41% of young people up to 30 years old believe that renewables are too expensive without state assistance.
…But We’re Here: GIZ and Mikser Work for You
- Free tools: The Solar Calculator makes first steps easier.
- Mikser Festival: An annual platform for young innovators to test ideas and connect with experts.
- “Green Communities”: In Knjaževac, Bačka, and Zlatibor, there are already pilot projects connecting the local community, providing information and advice to citizens who want to improve the energy efficiency of their homes or install solar panels on their roofs.
Your Next Move?
If you want Serbia to breathe clean air, start in your own backyard. Visit mikser.rs to find out how to become part of the change – or make your first solar installation with the help of the Solar Calculator.
“The energy of the future doesn’t wait – it is created.”