Analysis of the Possibilities for Using Renewable Energy Sources in the Autonomous Province of Vojvodina

The aim of this paper is to analyze renewable energy sources (primarily untapped biomass potentials) in the Autonomous Province of Vojvodina in the Republic of Serbia, which, when used for energy purposes, could significantly reduce energy dependence on fossil fuels. The idea of using biomass in Vojvodina emerged about ten years ago, but it is estimated that currently only 5% of total biomass potential, the most significant source of renewable energy in the region, is being used. This paper re-emphasizes the idea of focusing Vojvodina’s energy policy on its own energy resources, which are readily available and renewable, but each year is either burned in the fields or left to rot. The paper will outline the total potential of raw materials, the form in which they are found, and the possible means of utilizing them. It will also provide an overview of energy in Vojvodina with a particular focus on the portion of renewable sources as a neglected potential within overall energy consumption. In addition to energy potential, this paper also points to the benefits for heating and the environment that would be created through increased use of biomass in the process of energy production.