EU and German Government to launch first renewable energy communities in Bosnia and Herzegovina
The EU for Collective Action for Energy Transition project was officially launched today, bringing together diplomats, state institutions, local authorities, civil society, and the media. Jointly co-financed by the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and implemented by GIZ, the €3.5 million project will establish Bosnia and Herzegovina’s first renewable energy communities. Under the slogan “Together for Energy Transition”, the initiative aims to empower local municipalities, citizens, and private actors to develop sustainable energy solutions that create jobs, improve energy efficiency, and advance climate goals.
"The European Union, in close partnership with the German Government, is proud to support Bosnia and Herzegovina in establishing its first renewable energy communities. ‘Together for Energy Transition’ captures the essence of our joint effort, showing that meaningful progress comes through cooperation between the EU, our Member States, national and local authorities, and the communities who will ultimately benefit. These energy communities will increase renewable energy capacity, improve energy efficiency, create local employment, and contribute to a greener, more resilient, and European future for all citizens," said Adebayo Babajide, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
As a signatory to the Energy Community Treaty, Bosnia and Herzegovina is on a path toward harmonizing with EU climate and energy standards. Renewable energy communities and other community led initiatives will play a crucial role in increasing renewable energy capacity, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and boosting the share of renewable sources - directly contributing to the targets outlined in BiH’s National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP).
“Energy and climate have long been top priorities for the German Government, and this year we marked 30 years of development cooperation between Germany and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Through the Regional Climate Partnership, we support ambitious climate goals that are essential for improving livelihoods, protecting the environment, and fostering prosperity across the region. This also strengthens the alignment of the Berlin Process with the EU Green Agenda for the Western Balkans, which aims to make Europe climate-neutral by 2050. I am very pleased and proud that together we will soon launch and support the first renewable energy projects that will bring concrete, measurable improvements to people’s daily lives. This is a strong example of our cooperation,” said Alfred Grannas, German Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
EU4CAET will provide a combination of technical assistance and grants to accelerate community-led pilot projects, including solar panels, heat pumps, biomass heating systems, public lighting upgrades, and electric vehicle charging stations. Through communication and awareness-raising initiatives, the project will empower communities to take an active role in shaping BiH’s energy future.
“We have been deeply committed to supporting local communities in developing their project ideas across various renewable energy technologies. We are now focused on tailored technical assistance to further refine these ideas and prepare high-quality applications for the grant call planned for February 2026 and 2027. What has been particularly encouraging is the remarkable level of interest and readiness shown by local communities from both entities to ‘enter new terrain’—to propose their own project concepts, explore innovative solutions, and actively shape their energy future. I would especially like to commend their openness to new technologies and approaches, as well as their determination to become role models for others by developing and implementing projects independently,” emphasized Mareike Hahr, Head of the EU4CAET Project.
Renewable energy communities and other community led- initiatives will significantly improve the quality of life for citizens across Bosnia and Herzegovina, with local communities becoming driving forces of the energy transition and shaping a better energy future for the whole society.
The European Union and the Government of Germany remain committed to supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sustainable energy future by empowering local communities and facilitating access to renewable energy solutions. Through close cooperation between citizens, municipalities, and the private sector, this support aims to drive long-term changes that enhance energy security and improve the quality of life throughout the country.