Bosnia to boost energy security, jobs with World Bank support

According to the World Bank, the project—Just Transition in Select Coal Regions of Bosnia and Herzegovina—will focus on repurposing former mining areas in Banovići, Zenica, and Kreka and overseeing the closure of underground mining operations in Zenica. The initiative will also support the installation of renewable energy systems at the Banovići and Kreka mine sites.

In addition to its environmental goals, the project will include social protection measures and skills development programs to help workers and communities transition to jobs outside the coal sector.

“This project is a chance to strengthen Bosnia and Herzegovina’s energy security while supporting its communities and ensuring that no one is left behind,” said Christopher Sheldon, World Bank Country Manager for Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is currently developing its National Energy and Climate Plan, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fully decarbonise the power sector by 2050.

Building on this commitment, the World Bank emphasised that it will help ensure that mine closures are carried out in an environmentally sustainable and socially responsible manner, while also creating new economic opportunities in former coal regions.