Empowering Bosnia and Herzegovina: USAID Launches $9.9 Million Energy Sector Initiative

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has launched a new energy sector assistance project in Bosnia and Herzegovina, aimed at enhancing energy security and promoting a transition to clean energy. This five-year initiative, valued at $9.9 million, builds upon previous efforts to create a sustainable energy framework in the region.

Key Takeaways

• Investment: The project is funded with $9.9 million over five years.
• Goals: Focus on energy security, integration into European energy markets, and economic growth.
• Partnerships: Collaboration with decision-makers, industry leaders, and the private sector.
• Sustainability: Emphasis on renewable energy and improved air quality.

Project Overview

The new USAID Energy Policy Activity (USAID/EPA) project was officially launched on December 19, 2024. It aims to continue the momentum from the previous USAID EPA project, which concluded in September 2024. The initiative is designed to strengthen Bosnia and Herzegovina’s energy security and facilitate its transition to cleaner energy sources.

Objectives of the Project

The project will focus on several key objectives:

1. Strengthening Energy Security: Enhancing the resilience of the energy sector to ensure reliable energy supply.
2. Integration into European Markets: Supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina in adopting the National Energy and Climate Plan and relevant state-level laws to facilitate entry into regional and European energy markets.
3. Encouraging Private Investment: Promoting private-sector investment in clean energy technologies and infrastructure.
4. Improving Energy Efficiency: Implementing measures to enhance energy efficiency across various sectors.
5. Advancing Renewable Energy: Increasing the use of renewable energy sources and electric vehicles.
6. Diversifying Energy Sources: Supporting the Southern Interconnection natural gas pipeline project to broaden the country’s energy supply options.

Expected Outcomes

The anticipated outcomes of the USAID project include:

• A more resilient and diverse energy system that can better meet the needs of businesses and households.
• Improved air quality and public health through the adoption of cleaner energy solutions.
• Enhanced local economic growth and job creation in the renewable energy sector.

Collaborative Approach

USAID emphasizes the importance of collaboration in achieving these goals. The project will foster open dialogue among various stakeholders, including:

• Decision Makers: Engaging with government officials to shape energy policies.
• Energy Industry Leaders: Collaborating with industry experts to implement best practices.
• Private Sector: Encouraging investment and innovation in clean energy.
• NGOs and Media: Raising awareness and promoting public engagement in energy reforms.

Conclusion

The launch of this new energy sector assistance project marks a significant step forward in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s journey towards a sustainable energy future. With a focus on collaboration, investment, and innovation, the USAID initiative aims to create a robust energy framework that not only powers the nation but also supports economic growth and environmental sustainability for generations to come.

Sources

• USAID Launches New Energy Sector Assistance Project in Bosnia and Herzegovina | Bosnia and Herzegovina | Press Release | U.S. Agency for International Development, U.S. Agency for International Development (.gov).
• USAID launches new $9.9 mln energy policy project in Bosnia | Bosnia and Herzegovina Politics News | SeeNews, SeeNews.