From a student’s curiosity about hydropower plants to project management around the world, Andrijana Knežević’s professional path, Senior Electrical Engineer at GMS Consult, illustrates how a passion for renewable energy turns into a career that shapes the future of electric power systems In an interview with RES Serbia, she talks about the challenges of working in different cultures, the importance of modernizing hydropower plants for the energy transition, the technologies that will mark the next decade and the growing role of women engineers in the development of sustainable systems.
You currently work as a Senior Electrical Engineer at GMS Consult doo. What motivated you to choose power engineering, particularly hydropower plants and energy facilities?
– Already during my studies, through the subject Power Plants, I realized that I was drawn to the field of electricity generation, with hydropower plants sparking the greatest interest since the energy they produce belongs to renewable and sustainable sources. Even then, I knew this was one of the areas in which I could professionally grow. When I received a job offer from a company engaged in the design and development of hydropower plants and energy facilities, I accepted without hesitation. Today I can say it was the right decision, I found myself completely in this field, and my current work, focused on solar and wind power plants, represents a natural continuation of that path and further engagement with renewable energy sources.
You have worked on major infrastructure projects in Serbia, the region, as well as in the UK and the Middle East. How does working on projects in Serbia differ from those abroad?
– In addition to the different specifications and technical regulations of each country, which must be adapted to, there is also the challenge of working with people from different cultures, with different habits and ways of thinking. This sometimes posed difficulties, especially due to the lack of face-to-face communication and the fact that most interactions take place online. However, like everything else, this process improves over time you adapt — refine your skills, and such a way of working becomes part of everyday life.
How does the rehabilitation and modernization of hydropower plants contribute to the energy transition in the region?
– Preserving hydropower plants, renewable sources with controllable production, is of exceptional importance for the proper and reliable operation of the power system, especially under conditions of increasing penetration of wind and solar power plants.
Beyond being renewable, hydropower plants are characterized by high operational flexibility and the ability to respond quickly to sudden changes in consumption or production from other units. Thanks to this rapid response, hydropower plants are ideal for real-time system balancing and for supporting the integration of wind and solar power.
Rehabilitation and modernization extend their lifespan and improve their performance. The importance of these units will inevitably grow as more non-dispatchable renewable sources are integrated into the system, making it crucial that our existing hydropower plants remain in good condition.
Which technologies or approaches do you consider key for the future of the power sector in the context of climate change?
– The power sector is an extremely complex and vast system that has always required a comprehensive approach and the application of diverse technologies. Considering that in the future we will increasingly rely on wind and solar energy, ensuring stable system operation makes the development of energy storage a priority direction.
Pumped-storage hydropower plants, battery systems, thermal storage — these are all technologies that enhance overall system flexibility and thereby support further integration of renewables. On the other hand, I would emphasize the importance of developing energy self-sufficient microgrids of local character, for which increasing the balancing capacity of the entire system is not necessary.
You are also a member of the Engineering Chamber of Serbia. How do you see the power sector in Serbia and the region in ten years? Do you see room for greater cooperation between academia, industry, and international partners?
– First of all, I expect the share of renewables to be significantly higher in total system production. Consequently, I expect the construction of additional balancing capacities and increased system flexibility.
I truly see great potential for cooperation between academia, industry, and international partners. Academia is the bearer of innovative ideas and methodologies for system development, industry enables their testing and practical application, while international partners can contribute through financing and transferring experiences from other systems.
Each sector can contribute in an authentic way to the development of the power sector in Serbia, and their cooperation would be key to improving our system. I sincerely hope that in the future we will all witness this together.
How do you see the role of women electrical engineers in the development of renewable energy sources? What message would you give to young female engineers entering the world of power engineering?
– Power engineering is constantly evolving, and the field of renewable energy in particular opens space for creativity and the personal imprint of every engineer. Although men have traditionally dominated power engineering, the role of women is becoming increasingly visible, with female engineers more actively participating in the design, planning, integration, and management of renewable energy sources: contributing to innovation, greater energy efficiency, and sustainable development of power systems.
It is important to nurture curiosity, surround yourself with people you can learn from, build a support network, find mentors, and not hesitate to stand clearly and boldly behind your ideas. Take advantage of the opportunities offered and visit project sites, because it is precisely there that invaluable practical experience is gained and confidence in one’s own knowledge is built.
