Energy officials from Serbia, the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH), and the Republic of Srpska (RS) have agreed to strengthen collaborative efforts in hydropower development along the Drina River. This initiative aims to enhance regional gas connectivity as part of a broader strategy to improve energy security and resource management.
During a recent meeting, key ministers—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—discussed actionable steps for advancing hydropower projects in the middle section of the Drina River. The dialogue also included exploring potential gas interconnections that could benefit all parties involved.
A primary focus of the discussions was the review of existing technical documentation related to planned hydropower facilities. The participants agreed on establishing a joint working body to facilitate this process and confirmed intentions to draft a formal memorandum of cooperation for the project.
Serbia has expressed its commitment to continue with the Upper Drina hydropower scheme, contingent upon meeting necessary conditions within Bosnia and Herzegovina. Minister Đedović noted that approximately €15 million has already been allocated for preparatory works, with the state utility EPS actively financing the associated joint venture.
The significance of the Drina River as a shared regional resource was emphasized by Minister Đedović, who underscored the importance of integrating the Western Balkans electricity market with that of the European Union. Furthermore, she highlighted an increasing necessity for diversified gas supply routes throughout the region.
In conjunction with discussions on hydropower, Serbian officials presented plans for new gas interconnections with Romania and North Macedonia. The review of options aimed at enhancing gas links between Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina was also part of efforts to bolster regional energy security.
Minister Lakić reiterated the urgency of accelerating discussions regarding potential implementation models for hydropower plants on the middle Drina. He noted that expanding gas infrastructure remains a strategic priority for FBiH, particularly in relation to ongoing initiatives like the Southern Gas Interconnection project and future gas-fired power plants.
Minister Đokić pointed out that environmental impact studies for the Upper Drina project have already been completed. He argued that failing to efficiently utilize hydropower potential represents a significant missed opportunity for the region. The planned construction of three hydropower plants on the middle Drina is expected to yield substantial long-term energy benefits for all stakeholders involved.
