Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) imported electricity worth 136.4 million euros during the first four months of this year, marking a dramatic increase compared to just 22 million euros in the same period last year. This represents a staggering 518% surge in import value, highlighting the country’s growing energy challenges.
In fact, BiH imported more electricity in the first four months of 2025 than it did throughout the entire previous year, when total imports amounted to 110 million euros. Once a leading electricity exporter in the region, BiH has rapidly transformed into a major importer.
This shift is largely due to production difficulties, especially in the Republic of Srpska (RS), where several power plants have been hampered by coal shortages. Among these, RiTE Gacko showed relative stability, while RiTE Ugljevik struggled significantly. The Ugljevik plant’s operations were limited not only by scarce coal supplies but also by a financial obligation to Slovenia’s electricity transmission company. Beyond repaying a debt of 67 million euros, Ugljevik is required to allocate one-third of its electricity output to the Slovenian company.
The Federation of BiH is facing similar difficulties, as most coal mines under the EPBiH umbrella are heavily indebted. This has led to declining coal production and, consequently, reduced electricity generation capacity. Additionally, poor hydrological conditions earlier this year further weakened domestic electricity production, increasing dependence on imports.
Despite these challenges, there is a positive note: electricity exports during the same four-month period rose to 157.7 million euros, a 41% increase compared to last year’s 111.7 million euros.
