Authorities in the Republika Srpska say that construction of the Hydropower Plant Dabar has entered its final phase, with commissioning expected sometime next year if works continue according to schedule.
Energy and Mining Minister Petar Djokić stated that most of the technically demanding stages of the project have already been completed. The focus now shifts to finishing the remaining construction works and installing key equipment so the facility can begin generating electricity.
The minister explained that a significant portion of the plant’s electromechanical equipment has already started arriving at the construction site. The next stage will involve completing the remaining infrastructure and preparing the facility for operational readiness. Authorities highlight that HPP Dabar is expected to become one of the key energy projects in the region, helping to increase electricity production and strengthen long-term energy security in Republika Srpska.
Director of Elektroprivreda Republike Srpske, Luka Petrović, said that construction of the 12.1-kilometer water intake tunnel is nearing completion, with works expected to finish by early September. At the same time, additional funding will be required to complete land expropriation in the Nevesinje field area.
Approximately 25 million euros will be needed to finalize the expropriation process, which involves relocating 25 households from the project zone. Authorities are currently seeking additional financial resources to address this requirement.
HPP Dabar will have an installed capacity of 160 MW and is considered one of the largest energy investments currently underway in the region. Petrović noted that Republika Srpska is among the few areas of the former Yugoslavia where such a large hydropower project has been launched in recent years.
Officials believe the project will strengthen the financial position of the national power utility while also helping to maintain relatively stable electricity prices for consumers.
Danilo Ilić, Director of the HPP Dabar project company, said that the current year represents a crucial stage for the project. Earthworks have already been completed, and construction will soon move to building canals, transmission infrastructure and installing hydro-mechanical equipment, including pipelines.
