
Energy expert Amer Jerlagic spoke with N1 about key issues surrounding energy security, the South Interconnection project, and challenges facing the region, particularly Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), in light of sanctions imposed on Russian Gazprom, which owns the Oil Industry of Serbia (NIS) operating in BiH. Pročitaj više
Jerlagić highlighted the reasons behind U.S. sanctions on NIS, stating:
“Gazprom Neft, one of Russia's largest companies, owns 56 percent of NIS shares alongside Gazprom, with 30 percent owned by the Serbian government and the rest by small shareholders. These sanctions likely stem from the connection between NIS ownership and Russia, potentially related to financial flows that could support Russia amid the conflict in Ukraine.”
He also explained the implications for the region and BiH:
“NIS has a contract with Croatia's JANAF (Adriatic oil pipeline) for 10 million barrels of oil over two years. This impacts the region. In BiH, NIS operates numerous gas stations. Additionally, part of the oil is refined in Bosanski Brod, which could have consequences for the region and the Western Balkans.”
Jerlagic noted that the crisis would not cause immediate issues but could become problematic if prolonged:
“In the short term, it won't pose a major problem, as Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic mentioned that Serbia has two to three months of strategic reserves. NIS also produces 20 percent of its oil from domestic sources. However, if unresolved, the region could face supply issues.”
Jerlagic also commented on the adoption of the South Interconnection Law in the Federation of BiH (FBiH) entity, calling it a positive development:
“This project will ensure dual supply security for natural gas. With competition, we are likely to see lower gas prices.”
He emphasized the importance of reducing reliance on Russian gas:
“I wouldn’t label this as solely an American project. It’s a project for Croatia and BiH, supported by the US administration, to provide a true alternative and reduce dependence on Russian gas.”
Jerlagic expressed confidence in the project's realization:
“Once political hurdles are addressed, implementation will be straightforward.”
He also suggested the need for another gas connection between Slavonski Brod and Sarajevo to strengthen regional energy security further.
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