The Serbian government is making significant efforts to secure its energy future by tapping into its hydropower resources. The key project in this initiative is the 114.4 MW Buk Bijela hydropower plant on the Drina River, which is being developed in collaboration with the Republic of Srpska (RS). The Ministry of Mining and Energy emphasizes the country’s reliance on domestic clean energy sources and its commitment to this important project.
One of the highlights of the project is the cross-border cooperation with Montenegro, which has been fostering constructive dialogue to address challenges related to its development. Serbia and RS both stand to benefit from the project, and a crucial step, the cross-border Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), is nearing completion. This will be followed by public consultations in both the RS and Montenegro, ensuring transparency.
To further demonstrate Serbia’s dedication, the state-owned power utility EPS invested 2.5 million euros last year into the project company HES Gornja Drina, a joint venture between EPS and ERS, tasked with developing Buk Bijela, Foca, and Paunci hydropower plants. Over 15 million euros have already been invested in the preparatory works, which began with the laying of the foundation stone for Buk Bijela in May 2021 by prominent political figures from Serbia and RS.
Once the EIA process is finalized and conditions are met, the project will move forward with tender activities to select the main contractors.
