The Government of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH) has initiated a review of the environmental impacts of the Ulog hydropower plant and the planned Gornji Horizonti hydro project. The decision cites concerns about potential effects on the Neretva River basin. Authorities said the review is intended to examine the projects’ environmental implications within the Federation.
Possible link to upper Neretva ecological changes
According to the Government, scientific analyses and reports from environmental organizations and research institutions point to a possible connection between ecological changes in the upper Neretva region and the operation of HPP Ulog. Officials stated that further investigations are needed to determine whether the facility is operating in line with conditions set out in its environmental permits. This assessment is framed around compliance with permit requirements.
The Federal Government has ordered the formation of an expert assessment team to evaluate the plant’s impact on affected areas within the Federation. The team is expected to propose possible protection and remediation measures. Authorities also indicated that, if environmental damage is confirmed, the Federal Attorney’s Office may consider further legal action.
Concerns over water flow regime impacts
FBiH has also raised concerns regarding the Gornji Horizonti project, warning that potential changes in water flow regimes could affect biodiversity and hydrological conditions in the Neretva basin. Officials emphasized that the region’s complex karst geology requires careful evaluation of any large-scale water management intervention. The focus is on how altered flows could translate into environmental effects.
As part of its conclusions, the Federation requested access to all relevant documentation and permits related to the Gornji Horizonti project. Authorities are also considering an inter-agency working group and a possible state-level joint commission to further assess the project and its environmental implications.
