Negotiations between Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina regarding the Buk Bijela hydroelectric project have shown promising developments. In the second phase of their roadmap aimed at resolving disputes, both parties have agreed to conduct a new environmental impact study, as reported by Igor Todorović for the Green Energy News portal.
Led by environmental expert Aleksandra Bujaroska from the Energy Community Secretariat, the cross-border dialogue group of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro reached consensus on this pivotal step for the Buk Bijela hydroelectric project. The decision to repeat the environmental impact study underscores their commitment to upholding rigorous environmental standards, according to an announcement by the Secretariat. The study will be comprehensive, guided by the latest scientific insights, and involve extensive participation from public and regulatory bodies to thoroughly assess all cross-border implications.
Both delegations highlighted progress achieved during the initial phase of their roadmap. Key findings, including geodetic surveys and hydrological measurements, were affirmed as foundational outcomes of the dialogue, stated the Energy Community Secretariat.
As previously reported, Republika Srpska and Serbia initiated preparatory activities for the 93-megawatt Buk Bijela hydroelectric power plant three years ago, as part of the broader Upper Drina Cascade development, which encompasses projects like Foča and Paunci hydroelectric plants.
However, objections have been raised by Montenegro and the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Earlier statements from Montenegro emphasized that the Buk Bijela HPP could proceed if environmental impacts within Montenegro are adequately addressed.
Despite delays and no ongoing construction activities, as noted in recent meeting reports by Green Energy News, last week’s adoption of the Draft Public Investment Program of Republika Srpska for 2025-2027 highlighted significant energy investments earmarked for the Buk Bijela HPP.
“The largest investments in energy over the next two years will focus on the construction of the Buk Bijela HPP within the Upper Drina Hydroelectric System, amounting to 375 million KM (with a total project value of 579 million KM),” announced the Government of Republika Srpska.
Green Energy News also points out that the Upper Drina project is a collaborative effort involving Elektroprivreda Srbije (51%) and Elektroprivreda Republike Srpske. In March, Montenegro, Serbia, and Republika Srpska committed to joint development of energy projects such as hydroelectric plants and infrastructure improvements, aimed at resolving ongoing sectoral disputes.
The conceptual groundwork for the Buk Bijela HPP was first laid out in 2011, setting the stage for subsequent negotiations and project developments.
