Energy officials from Serbia, the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH), and the Republic of Srpska (RS) have committed to enhancing collaboration on hydropower development along the Drina River, while also focusing on improving regional gas connectivity. This cooperative effort aims to leverage shared resources for greater energy security and market integration.
At a recent meeting, key stakeholders including Serbia’s Mining and Energy Minister Dubravka Đedović, FBiH Energy, Mining and Industry Minister Vedran Lakić, and RS Energy and Mining Minister Petar Đokić outlined strategic initiatives for hydropower projects situated in the middle section of the Drina River. Discussions also encompassed potential gas interconnections that could bolster regional energy infrastructure.
The officials identified a critical first step as reviewing existing technical documentation related to planned hydropower facilities. This will be followed by establishing a joint working body to facilitate ongoing collaboration. Additionally, they confirmed intentions to draft a formal memorandum of cooperation to guide their efforts in this domain.
Minister Đedović reaffirmed Serbia’s commitment to advancing the Upper Drina hydropower scheme, contingent upon meeting specific conditions within Bosnia and Herzegovina. To date, approximately €15 million has been allocated for preparatory works associated with this initiative, with the state utility EPS continuing its financial support for the joint venture involved.
Highlighting the significance of the Drina River as a shared regional resource, Minister Đedović emphasized the necessity of integrating the Western Balkans electricity market with that of the European Union. Furthermore, she noted an increasing demand for diversified gas supply routes throughout the region.
In conjunction with discussions on hydropower development, Serbian officials presented plans aimed at establishing new gas interconnections with Romania and North Macedonia. They also explored options for enhancing gas links between Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina to improve overall energy security within these countries.
Minister Lakić underscored the urgency of expediting discussions regarding implementation models for hydropower plants along the middle Drina. He pointed out that expanding gas infrastructure remains a strategic priority for FBiH, referencing ongoing projects related to the Southern Gas Interconnection initiative alongside future plans for gas-fired power plants.
Meanwhile, Minister Đokić highlighted that environmental impact assessments for the Upper Drina project have been completed. He argued that failing to capitalize on the region’s hydropower potential represents a significant missed opportunity. The proposed construction of three hydropower plants on the middle Drina is expected to yield substantial long-term energy benefits for all involved stakeholders.
