The Government of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH) has initiated an environmental review covering the Ulog hydropower plant and the planned Gornji Horizonti hydro project. The review is linked to concerns about potential impacts on the Neretva River basin. Authorities said the assessment focuses on environmental effects associated with both developments.
Possible links to ecological changes in the upper Neretva
FBiH stated that 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. The Government said further investigations are required to verify whether the facility is operating in line with conditions set out in its environmental permits. Additional checks are intended to clarify compliance status.
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 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 regimes for Gornji Horizonti
FBiH also raised concerns regarding the planned 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 review therefore extends to hydrological implications tied to the project design.
As part of its conclusions, the Federation requested access to all relevant documentation and permits related to Gornji Horizonti. Authorities are also considering establishing an inter-agency working group and a possible state-level joint commission to further assess the project’s environmental implications.
