Natural gas is set to become a crucial energy source in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), according to Vedran Lakić, the Minister of Energy, Mining and Industry of the Federation of BiH. Lakić emphasized the significance of natural gas for the future of the country’s energy sector, particularly in light of the ongoing plans to phase out coal. He pointed out that natural gas will continue to be a vital energy resource in the Federation, serving as an essential bridge towards a more sustainable energy future. His comments came during the Gas Forum organized by the Sarajevogas utility.
Lakić also announced that a plan for three additional gas interconnections would soon be presented. These pipelines are intended to ensure a reliable supply of gas and facilitate further expansion of the gas network in BiH, although he did not reveal specific details about the projects. Currently, BiH relies on a single gas supply route, the Turkish Stream pipeline, which brings gas from Russia via the Black Sea, Turkey, Bulgaria, and Serbia. BiH has been working for several years to establish the Southern Interconnection, which will connect the country to Croatia and provide alternative supply routes.
In January, the BiH Parliament approved the Southern Interconnection pipeline project, which will enter the country near Posušje and extend to Travnik, passing through Tomislavgrad, Kupres, and Bugojno. The second phase of the project aims to expand the pipeline network to Mostar, Livno, and Jajce. Lakić highlighted that the ministry is working closely with BH-Gas to prepare the three new gas interconnections. He also noted that gasification efforts should have begun a decade ago, adding that the focus in 2025 and 2026 will be on both gas and oil.
The minister emphasized that the goal is to bring natural gas to numerous local communities, providing both businesses and citizens with access to this energy source. Forum participants agreed that natural gas plays a key role in BiH’s future, especially in reducing air pollution and supporting sustainable economic development.
