EU supports Bosnia and Herzegovina’s green transition through EUR 6 million energy efficiency project

Bosnia and Herzegovina today took another important step toward a cleaner and more energy-efficient future with the official launch of the EU4EnergyEfficiency project, funded by the European Union and jointly implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Czech Development Agency (CZDA), in close cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations (MOFTER).

Through this new initiative, the European Union continues to support Bosnia and Herzegovina’s efforts to meet its Energy Community obligations, strengthen institutional capacities, reduce energy consumption in public buildings, and promote the use of renewable energy sources.

Valued at more than EUR 6 million, the initiative will help public institutions invest in energy-efficient renovations and renewable energy solutions, while also introducing the Energy Service Company (ESCO) model to attract sustainable investments.

Ms. Magdalena Müller-Uri, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to BiH, underlined the broader vision of the European Union’s support:

“The European Union and its Member States are committed partners of Bosnia and Herzegovina in its green energy transition. The EU has already invested more than EUR 160 million in the country’s energy sector, supporting energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, and policy reforms – also in line with the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans. Through the EU4EnergyEfficiency project, we are continuing this support - helping public institutions modernize buildings, reduce energy consumption, and create tangible benefits for citizens while aligning with EU energy and climate standards,” said Müller-Uri.

More than 200 public servants will be trained to implement practical energy-saving measures, while public campaigns will reach citizens countrywide, raising awareness about how energy efficiency improves both living standards and environmental protection. 

“Energy efficiency is a key pillar of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s green transition,” said Sanja Kapetina, Head of the Department for Secondary Energy and Projects at the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations of BiH. “This project contributes to our efforts to reduce energy consumption in public buildings, increase the use of renewable energy sources, and strengthen institutional capacities. We are grateful to the European Union for its continued support and to our partners, UNDP and the Czech Development Agency, for their cooperation in achieving our shared goal - a more energy-efficient and sustainable Bosnia and Herzegovina.”

The Czech Development Agency will provide technical expertise and share lessons from the Czech Republic’s own transition. Michal Minčev, Director of the Czech Development Agency noted:

"The Czech Development Agency is proud to bring the Czech Republic’s experience and technical expertise in energy efficiency to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Through the EU4Energy Efficiency project, we aim to apply Czech know-how in close cooperation with local partners, supporting practical solutions that will strengthen institutions, improve energy management, and contribute to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sustainable energy transition.”

Mr. Renaud Meyer, UNDP Resident Representative, highlighted the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainable results:

“This project reflects UNDP’s strong commitment to working with the European Union and the Czech Development Agency to turn global partnerships into local results. By combining EU leadership, Czech expertise, and UNDP’s experience in sustainable development, we are improving energy efficiency for people and communities across Bosnia and Herzegovina - ensuring their right to live in healthier, safer, and more resilient homes and workplaces.”

Over the coming months, the project will announce public calls for energy renovation of public buildings and ESCO projects, ensuring transparent selection under the National Investment Framework. By its completion, the project is expected to renovate over 27,000 m⊃2; of public space, achieving annual savings of 1.8 million kWh and reducing CO₂ emissions by over 1,200 tons.

The EU4EnergyEfficiency project is a strong example of how EU support, international cooperation, and innovative financing can drive real change, contributing to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s greener, more resilient, and inclusive energy future.