ĐOKIĆ: INVESTMENTS IN THE ENERGY SECTOR EXCEEDED BAM FIVE BILLION

BANJA LUKA, JUNE 28 /SRNA/ - The Minister of Energy and Mining of Republika Srpska, Petar Đokić, told SRNA that the value of signed contracts in the energy sector has exceeded BAM five billion, adding that Republika Srpska has attracted a significant number of foreign investors.

"The total contract value stands at BAM 5.05 billion. For Republika Srpska, considering its GDP, these are massive investments. I am proud of the fact that we have secured them over the past years. Many of the facilities are already under construction," Đokić said.

He emphasized that the largest projects are being carried out by Elektroprivreda Republike Srpske, which is currently building two hydropower plants.

"One of them is the 159-megawatt Dabar Hydropower Plant near Nevesinje, and the other is the Bistrica Hydropower Plant near Foča. These projects have reached a value of around 600 million Euros," Đokić said in the SRNA podcast.

He emphasized that Republika Srpska has attracted numerous investors in the energy sector, particularly in solar and wind power plants.

“The challenge we face is the transmission capacities - how to connect the power plants to the existing grid. This is a challenge not only for Republika Srpska but also for the Federation of BiH. A few days ago, I spoke with the federal minister, and I expect that such dialogue will yield results,” said Đokić.

He believes that in some areas, Europe has made a poor assessment regarding the transition to renewable energy sources, especially given the instability of certain sources, particularly solar power plants, whose operation depends on many factors.

“They cannot be as reliable as thermal, nuclear, or gas power plants. I see a pause and a reconsideration of their stance regarding coal,” emphasized Đokić.