The Republic of Srpska (RS) is set to launch a major gasification program aimed at expanding the entity’s natural gas infrastructure and reducing dependence on more polluting heating sources. The project, valued at approximately €520 million, is expected to be completed within four years and will be financed from the entity’s budget.
Sarajevo-Gas director Nedeljko Elek stated that the preparatory phase has already been completed. He confirmed that project documentation, tender procedures, and procurement processes are finalized, and authorities are now waiting for the signing of contracts with construction contractors.
The initiative will involve building a main gas pipeline network along with supporting distribution infrastructure to supply municipalities across the RS. Plans include gas stations in 18 cities and municipalities, which Elek described as a major transformation for the region’s energy system. A special law regulating the construction of the main pipeline is also planned to accelerate project implementation.
Construction is scheduled to begin in August, with the first stage aiming to bring the pipeline to Banja Luka within roughly 18 months. Elek noted that the city faces serious environmental and heating challenges, often appearing on global lists of highly polluted urban areas. Gasification is expected to deliver both economic and environmental benefits.
Elek highlighted that the current price of natural gas is around €0.5 per cubic meter, making it cheaper than some other utilities while providing a cleaner energy option for households and industry.
The gas infrastructure project originates from a prior gas supply agreement with Russia, Elek said, emphasizing cooperation with multiple international partners. He also stressed that energy cooperation should not be excessively influenced by political tensions, underlining the need for pragmatic relations with both Western countries and Russia to ensure stable and affordable energy supplies.
According to Elek, RS should continue developing economic partnerships with individual EU member states such as Hungary and Slovakia, focusing on competitiveness and energy affordability rather than political disputes.
