Bosnia records sharp increase in electricity imports

Although electricity exports also increased by 24.5%, total imports exceeded exports, shifting BiH from being a major exporter to a significant importer of electricity. Electricity exports in the first quarter of this year reached 213.97 million marks (approximately €109.46 million), compared to 171.86 million marks (some €87.85 million) in the same period last year. However, in contrast to 2023, when BiH exported around 367 million marks (around €187.56 million), exports have drastically declined.

Experts cite reduced coal production, unfavourable weather conditions, and slow development of renewable energy sources as key factors behind these changes. Luka Petrovic, General Director of "Elektroprivreda RS," confirmed that Republika Srpska purchased electricity worth 120 million marks (approximately €61.38 million) in the first four months of this year and resorted to credit arrangements due to losses.

Energy experts Edhem Bicakcic and Mirza Kusljugic warn that electricity prices are likely to rise and emphasise the urgent need for investments in renewable energy to stabilise the market, Nezavisne novine reported.