The Minister of Energy and Mining of the Republic of Srpska (RS), Petar Djokic, highlighted the region’s strong electricity production capacity, noting that RS produces more electricity than it consumes, generating a surplus of about 35% under optimal conditions. This surplus is predominantly sold on foreign markets. To enhance energy production further, RS is pursuing several energy projects, including significant investments in hydro, solar, and wind energy. State-owned power utility ERS has signed concession contracts for 680 MW of capacity, with over 300 MW dedicated to the hydro sector, including projects like the Buk Bijela, Dabar and Bistrica hydropower plants. Additionally, there are approximately 1,300 contracts for solar energy and ongoing wind energy projects, totaling around 1,970 MW of installed capacity, with an estimated investment value of 2.3 billion euros.
Regarding legal matters, Minister Djokic addressed the recent arbitrations that RS has faced. One notable case involves RiTE Ugljevik, where RS is complying with the arbitration decision by delivering one-third of the energy produced at TPP Ugljevik to Slovenian HSE at market prices and is in the process of fulfilling a financial obligation of 63 million euros. Another arbitration case in Washington is currently on hold but is expected to be concluded favorably for RS, as all obligations are being met.
In a separate arbitration related to hydropower plants (HPPs) on the Vrbas river, Djokic mentioned ongoing procedures involving BiH institutions. The case is complicated by questions of credibility regarding the claimants, one of whom is from Slovenia and has been declared bankrupt. Despite the international arbitration court ruling in favor of the claimants, Djokic expressed concerns about the adequacy of the arguments presented by RS and the credibility of the claimants, who invested only about 100,000 euros into the project.
