The Government of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH) has launched a review of the environmental impacts of the Ulog hydropower plant and the planned Gornji Horizonti hydro project, citing concerns over potential effects on the Neretva River basin.
According to the Government, scientific analyses and reports from environmental organizations and research institutions indicate a possible link between ecological changes in the upper Neretva region and the operation of HPP Ulog. Authorities stated that additional investigations are necessary to determine whether the facility is operating in compliance with the conditions set out in its environmental permits.
The Federal Government has ordered the formation of an expert assessment team tasked with evaluating the plant’s impact on affected areas within the Federation. The team is expected to propose possible protection and remediation measures, while authorities also indicated that, if environmental damage is confirmed, the Federal Attorney’s Office may consider further legal action.
The Government has also expressed concern regarding the Gornji Horizonti project, warning that potential changes in water flow regimes could significantly affect biodiversity and hydrological conditions in the Neretva basin. Officials emphasized that the region’s complex karst geology requires particularly careful evaluation of any large-scale water management intervention.
As part of its conclusions, the Federation has requested access to all relevant documentation and permits related to the Gornji Horizonti project. Authorities are also considering the establishment of an inter-agency working group and a possible state-level joint commission to further assess the project and its environmental implications.
