WASHINGTON, November 2, 2017 — Serbia is interested in improving its infrastructure efficiency and sustainability, particularly in the transport and energy sectors, to contribute to the long-term competitiveness of the Serbian economy, and create growth and jobs. Thanks to a new $119 million (Euro 100 million equivalent) Enhancing Infrastructure Efficiency and Sustainability Program, approved today by the World Bank Group Board of Directors, Serbia will be able to better maintain 8,000 kilometers of roads and improve energy efficiency in 234 of its public buildings.
“Serbia is at the cross-roads of South East Europe and improving its road network is expected to be a major contributor to continued economic growth, not only in Serbia, but also in the region,” said Stephen Ndegwa, World Bank Country Manager for Serbia. “This operation will ensure the preservation of the road network and as well as all for substantial implementation of modern maintenance approaches in Serbia. In addition, it will improve energy efficiency and safety in renovated public buildings.”
The program will support Serbia in improving the management and sustainability of public infrastructure, focusing on the transport and energy sectors. The transport component focuses on supporting efforts to modernize the way road maintenance is managed, helping the country move from traditional maintenance to Performance-based Maintenance Contracting. This transition will bring better planning, contracting, and fiscal discipline to the Public Enterprise Roads of Serbia and will ensure better safety on Serbian roads.
The energy component supports the government’s Program for Reconstruction and Improvement of State-Owned Public Facilities by improving energy efficiency and safety in 234 public buildings throughout Serbia and strengthening the implementation capacity of the program. The renovated buildings - which include hospitals and clinics, schools and kindergartens, and other social facilities - will have lower energy bills, improved building conditions (such as better lighting and heating), extended operational lifetimes, and enhanced safety (e.g. structural improvements and fire protection).
