FBiH moves to modernise gas sector with new law aligned to EU standards

The law brings greater transparency to the sector, enhances the regulatory authority of FERK (the Regulatory Commission for Energy in FBiH), and introduces special government measures to address potential market disruptions. It represents a key step toward the modernisation of the energy sector in the Federation.

The House of Representatives of the FBiH Parliament has passed the Draft Law on Gas, which lays out detailed provisions for managing natural gas operations across the supply chain.

“This law is designed to protect the interests of end users, enhance energy security, and support environmental protection in the context of natural gas usage,” said Vedran Lakic, the FBiH Minister of Energy, Mining, and Industry.

He emphasised that the legislation is crucial to shaping energy policy by establishing an efficient regulatory framework, defining new rights and safeguards for consumers, and driving forward infrastructure development across the Federation.

The law also aligns the FBiH’s energy regulations with EU standards. It aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, foster a competitive market environment, increase transparency, and prioritise consumer protections.

Special care has been taken to clarify the division of responsibilities between state and entity institutions. The law exclusively addresses areas under the jurisdiction of the Federation—namely, gas production, distribution, supply, and storage.

Additionally, the legislation includes provisions reaffirming the Federation’s commitment to adopting natural gas regulations at both the entity and state levels.

The bill still requires approval from the House of Peoples of the Parliament of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina before it can become law.