Businesses in Republika Srpska are expected to see higher electricity prices starting in January 2027, with households facing increases from March. The authorities are also seeking to strengthen the power sector’s finances while addressing coal supply problems that could affect winter generation. The size of the planned increases has not been announced.
Residential prices are scheduled to remain unchanged until March. The government is considering measures intended to limit the impact of later adjustments on households. Authorities have linked the pricing approach to efforts to manage sector finances alongside supply reliability concerns.
Ugljevik thermal plant disruptions and winter generation focus
The immediate operational priority is restoring reliable output at the Ugljevik thermal power plant. Disruptions at the facility have led authorities to prioritise fuel supplies and implement measures aimed at preventing electricity restrictions during winter.
Luka Petrović, general director of state-owned utility ERS, said the company would arrange urgent coal purchases. The stated goal is to restart generation and keep the plant operating. The actions are framed as a response to current production disruptions affecting supply continuity.
Ugljevik East 2 mining access and planned legislative changes
A longer-term solution depends on access to the Ugljevik East 2 mining area. Unresolved property rights, including inheritance disputes, have delayed land expropriation and limited access to areas needed for coal extraction.
The government is preparing legislation intended to remove administrative obstacles affecting the mine. A broader law covering strategic infrastructure is also expected before the end of 2026, with the aim of accelerating major energy projects. These steps are tied to improving conditions for coal supply required for generation.
ERS ownership stance and residential tariff defence
Energy Minister Petar Đokić ruled out privatisation as a response to difficulties in the sector. He said ERS would remain publicly owned and operate under stronger state oversight.
ERS management defended its residential pricing policy, with Petrović describing household tariffs as among Europe’s lowest. He linked the household approach to the government’s commitment to protecting consumers from high energy bills. Higher tariffs are described as potentially improving sector finances next year, while winter supply remains dependent on securing coal and restoring dependable generation at Ugljevik.
