Why is Serbia opening its sole NIS oil refinery to other domestic firms in August?

Serbia is opening part of its sole NIS oil refinery to other domestic oil firms in August to secure fuel supplies due to high demand and record-low water levels in the Danube river, which have severely constrained barge and tanker transport capacity—reducing fuel imports to just 25% of their monthly target in July.

How have low Danube water levels impacted Serbia's energy sector beyond fuel supply?

Beyond disrupting fuel imports, low Danube water levels have affected other Serbian energy facilities, including the coal-fired Kostolac power plants, where insufficient water disrupted cooling systems and led to reduced electricity output.

Serbia to open refinery to other firms to secure fuel supplies

Aug 4, 2026

Serbia will open part of its sole NIS oil refinery to domestic firms to secure fuel supplies amid record-low Danube water levels reducing barge cargo capacity. The move addresses high demand after imports fell to 25% of targets in July.

reuters

2026-07-22

Serbia's fuel imports drop due to low Danube levels, energy minister says

2026-08-04

Serbia to open refinery to other firms to secure fuel supplies

2026-08-28

Serbia Secures Further Sanctions Waiver for Russian-Owned NIS Oil Firm

Serbia to open refinery to other firms to secure fuel supplies

FAQ