Mobilization of photovoltaic potential in Bosnia and Herzegovina: Pilot and model plant and energy cooperative as an impulse for a PV ecosystem and driver for the national PV ramp-up

Keywords: citizen energy, climate protection, resource conservation, environmental communication, environmental technology, capacity building, networking, energy community, rural regions, knowledge transfer

Subject and objectives of the project

The energy sector in Bosnia and Herzegovina is still fossil-based: most of the country’s electricity is generated in thermal power plants; coal, gas and oil currently account for over 60 % of electricity generation. At the same time, Bosnia and Herzegovina has significant potential for climate-friendly electricity generation from renewable sources, particularly photovoltaics (PV) (up to 1,700 kWh/m²a), which is far from being fully exploited. However, the national PV potential of up to 4,500 MW identified in studies is offset by a current installed capacity of only around 35 MW.

The project aims to clarify the key question “What are the obstacles at an individual level to implementing measures and exploiting PV potential throughout the country?”. The aim is to lay the foundations for a country-specific “photovoltaic ecosystem” with an exemplary pilot project in the municipality of Čardačani.

Innovation and exemplary nature of the project

Both the economic and technical feasibility are to be demonstrated in a first-time energy cooperative model. The reference system serves as a model for upscaling to 10 systems at the Čardačani site and supports the differentiated technical demonstration of the various PV formats planned there, with a particular focus on agri-PV, horizontal and rooftop systems and mini power plants.

Funding topic 6: Renewable energy, energy saving and efficiency

Project implementation:

Places of activity: Bosnia and Herzegovina

Funding period: November 2024 to November 2026

Project costs: Total volume: 288,500 euros, funding from DBU: 106,250 euros

DBU-AZ: 40032

Status: 17.06.2025