The 4th Balkan Solar Summit Concludes
Key question of this year’s Summit: Can Bosnia and Herzegovina obtain an exemption for electricity in relation to CBAM? Today, the fourth Balkan Solar Summit concluded at the Banski Dvor, with a full hall on both days of the event, audience comments, panelists providing real answers, and a clearly defined path we will follow until the next edition. As expected, the greatest attention was drawn by the panel titled “CBAM AND ETS – A NEW REALITY FOR EXPORTERS”, because as of 1 January 2026 the regulation has officially changed. The CBAM-focused panel featured a very dynamic and substantive discussion on the key challenges this mechanism brings for Bosnia and Herzegovina and the countries of the region. Special attention was given to the possibility of an exemption for electricity, with panelists presenting differing views on whether the countries of the region—including Bosnia and Herzegovina—will manage to meet the prescribed conditions to obtain it. “It was concluded that Bosnia and Herzegovina can expect an intensification of activities in the coming period to establish the necessary regulatory and institutional framework, as well as the continuation of dialogue with the European Commission and the Energy Community regarding CBAM and the possibilities of an exemption for electricity,” the panelists emphasized. A major discussion was also sparked by the panel “DATA CENTERS AND ELECTRIC VEHICLES”. The moderator, Aljoša Pleić, stressed that data centers and electric vehicles are no longer “new consumption,” but rather a new industrial infrastructure that requires 24/7 clean, stable, and competitive power supply—thereby changing the rules of the game for renewables in the region. “The biggest opportunity has been recognized in ‘packaging’ solutions: large renewable-energy projects paired with batteries and contracts for 24/7 green energy, whereby new consumption can be turned into an acceleration of building green megawatts and decarbonization, instead of a new pressure and risk for the system,” he said. After the panel “HOW SUSTAINABILITY IS BECOMING THE GREATEST BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY IN ENERGY”, moderator Danijela Isailović concluded—following the discussion—that investors across all countries in the region face problems that slow down the energy transition, while also blocking numerous jobs for contractors and equipment distributors, delaying new green megawatts on the grid; and thereby delaying tax revenues and many other benefits for the local community. “CBAM as an obligation in the region is not being taken seriously enough, and all of this is bringing industry into business difficulties, while green energy remains an untapped business opportunity,” she emphasized. CBAM remains a topic that the Balkan Solar Summit will continue to address in the period ahead. Moderator Prof. Dr. Nikola Rajaković, after the panel “FLEXIBLE CONNECTION AGREEMENTS”, concluded: “Balkan Solar Summit carefully and thoroughly reviewed almost all key trends in modern energy, with an emphasis on renewable energy technologies—especially solar. After the discussion, we noted that the energy transition is being slowed in part by geopolitical developments, but that the strategic commitment to decarbonization remains a long-term goal.” The Summit Director, Milena Mijatović, thanked all participants for their trust and stated: “Once again, we showed how important it is to bring together all the game changers of the region’s energy transition in one place, because only conversation and the exchange of experience deliver the solutions the market needs—now more than ever. I’m glad the word about the Summit has reached international guests as well, and we already have topics for the next Summit.” See how these two days unfolded on the Summit’s social media channels. All information about this year’s topics and speakers can be found at www.solarsummit.ba, where, in the coming days, individual conclusions from each panel will also be published.
The 4th Balkan Solar Summit Officially Opened in Banja Luka!
For the fourth time, the Balkan Solar Summit has demonstrated just how important the topic of energy transition is to the market—not only in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but across the entire region. This year once again, the ceremonial hall of Banski Dvor was filled to capacity, and the opening itself featured Roby the robot, who addressed the topic of artificial intelligence and pointed out that, despite all of his knowledge, he still would not be able to organize such an event on his own. “We are not afraid of the arrival of artificial intelligence, because this gathering itself is proof that networking, conversation, and the exchange of ideas still come first on the path of development, especially within the topics addressed by the Balkan Solar Summit,” said Milena Mijatović, CEO of the Summit, at the opening of the 4th Balkan Solar Summit. Those in attendance were also addressed by ministers of the Government of Republika Srpska, Zlatan Klokić and Petar Đokić, as well as Vedran Lakić, a minister in the Government of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. More than 400 experts, industry leaders, investors, and key stakeholders are attending the fourth Balkan Solar Summit with the goal of creating concrete solutions aligned with regional and European standards, positioning the Balkan Solar Summit as the central platform for dialogue on energy transition in the region. “The Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations of Bosnia and Herzegovina has been a proud patron of the Balkan Solar Summit from the very beginning, in coordination and cooperation with the relevant ministries from Republika Srpska and the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. I am pleased to point out that even in the very first years we recognized the importance of this initiative and its potential to become a key regional platform for dialogue on energy transition, confirming that Banja Luka and Republika Srpska are regional centers for discussion on these important issues,” emphasized Staša Košarac, Minister of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations, as he officially declared the Balkan Solar Summit open. The most prominent figures from the energy sector are attending the Balkan Solar Summit, all with the aim of connecting and potentially reaching joint agreements on possible investments. Because while the Balkan Solar Summit is taking place, Banja Luka becomes the business hub of the energy transition. You can view the Balkan Solar Summit program at solarsummit.ba. The Summit is organized under the high patronage of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Ministry for European Integration and International Cooperation of the Government of Republika Srpska, the Ministry of Energy and Mining of Republika Srpska, as well as Elnos Group, with the support of other companies and organizations.
Participant Accreditation for the Balkan Solar Summit Begins
Participant accreditation for the Balkan Solar Summit 2026 officially begins on Wednesday, February 25, in Banja Luka. All registered participants can collect their accreditations at the Accreditation Center – Banski dvor. Accreditation Center working hours: We kindly ask all participants to collect their accreditations on time in order to avoid crowds and ensure a smooth start to the program. The Balkan Solar Summit brings together leading representatives of the energy sector, investors, institutions, and companies from the region and across Europe, and represents the most important regional business gathering dedicated to the energy transition.
Balkan Solar Summit 2026: Energy Transition in Practice
Balkan Solar Summit 2026, to be held on February 26 and 27 in Banja Luka, comes at a time when the region’s energy sector is under greater pressure than ever before. Issues of storage, grids, regulatory frameworks, and financing are no longer long-term topics — today they directly determine project value, company competitiveness, and the pace of the energy transition. The Summit program focuses on what is currently slowing down or accelerating the development of the renewable energy market in the region. Particular emphasis is placed on energy aggregation and storage as key mechanisms for system stability and the integration of renewables, as well as on market flexibility, which is becoming the new currency of the energy sector. One of the central segments addresses how ESG and sustainability are shifting from a regulatory obligation into a concrete business opportunity. Through practical examples, panelists will discuss how companies can measure sustainability, where real value is created, and how it translates into a competitive advantage. The growth in electricity consumption driven by data centers and e-mobility raises new questions around grid planning and investment priorities. “Balkan Solar Summit is important because, in the era of the green transition, no one wins alone — we must talk, connect, and develop business. This is where investors, the profession, and policymakers meet, and where decisions are made from which new green megawatts are born.Elnos Group stands behind undertakings that have already changed the energy map of the region and Europe, and our participation in green energy projects has long since exceeded two gigawatts. We always strive for new breakthroughs, which is why we naturally support events like this. For everyone who wants a faster and more efficient transition of the region, this summit is a reliable starting point for partnerships and concrete next steps,” emphasized Branko Torbica, Vice President of Elnos Group, sponsor of this year’s Balkan Solar Summit. Special attention is also given to the topics of CBAM and ETS, which are becoming a tangible cost and reputational risk for exporters in the region. Instead of general interpretations, the panels provide a clear overview of obligations, deadlines, and the steps companies must take to remain competitive on the European market. One of the most sensitive topics — grid connection — is addressed through a discussion on flexible contracts and new models that can accelerate project delivery and reduce congestion. The focus is on solutions that are already in use or ready for implementation. The final part of the program is dedicated to financing the green transition, offering an overview of new models, PPA structures, investor criteria, and the role of banks and funds in turning projects into bankable investments. Balkan Solar Summit 2026 is a reliable meeting place for investors, major market players, and experts in the green transition. Will you be joining us as well? Accreditations are available on the official Summit website: www.solarsummit.ba.
The 3rd Balkan Solar Summit was officially opened in Banja Luka!
The importance of renewable energy for the entire region is proven by the third Balkan Solar Summit, which began today at the Banski Dvor, once again breaking the attendance record. “Our vision from the start was clear: to bring together business leaders and industry visionaries with the goal of shaping the energy sustainability of the Balkans together. Today, I see that we have succeeded,” said Milena Mijatović, CEO of the Summit, at the opening of the 3rd Balkan Solar Summit. The third Balkan Solar Summit is attended by a large number of participants from 15 countries who have come to Banja Luka to draw conclusions on important topics for the region's energy sector, such as CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism), the green transition, as well as exchanging experiences on large energy projects, and the stability and security of the energy system during the transition. “The Republic of Srpska is currently at an advantage compared to the Federation of BiH, primarily when it comes to the regulatory framework, that is, the laws. One of the challenging issues is CBAM, which could burden our economic entities. We are aware of this and are working with the governments of the Republic of Srpska and the Federation of BiH on this matter. There is already an initiative in the European Parliament to delay CBAM until 2027,” stated Staša Košarac, Minister of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations, while declaring the Balkan Solar Summit officially opened. The most important figures in the energy sector are attending the Balkan Solar Summit with the goal of connecting and potentially reaching joint agreements on possible investments. Because while the Balkan Solar Summit is ongoing, Banja Luka becomes the business hub of the region! You can view the program of the Balkan Solar Summit at solarsummit.ba. The summit is organized under the high patronage of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Ministry for European Integration and International Cooperation of the Government of the Republic of Srpska, the Ministry of Energy and Mining of RS, as well as the Elnos Group and the support of other companies and organizations.
Tomorrow marks the start of the Balkan Solar Summit in Banja Luka!
Banja Luka is becoming the energy center of the region! Tomorrow, February 27th, the third Balkan Solar Summit will kick off at the Banski Dvor, with a program that will once again position Banja Luka as the energy hub of the region. Organized under the high patronage of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Ministry for European Integration and International Cooperation of the Government of the Republic of Srpska, and the Ministry of Energy and Mining of the Republic of Srpska, the summit will host participants from over 15 countries, further demonstrating the strong position that the Balkan Solar Summit has built in the field of renewable energy sources. “This year, the Balkan Solar Summit brings a strong program filled with current topics that are crucial for the energy future of the region. We can expect dynamic panel discussions on the challenges of the green transition, the impact of CBAM regulation on the decarbonization process, experiences in implementing large energy projects, and the latest technologies in energy storage. Special attention has been given to practical insights, inspiring speakers, and networking opportunities that lead to new business prospects,” said Milena Mijatović, CEO of the Balkan Solar Summit. A new feature of this year’s Balkan Solar Summit is free sessions for representatives of local communities, focusing on decarbonization, waste management, clean energy production, and opportunities for financing energy efficiency. In addition to keynote speeches, panels, and B2B meetings, the organizers have ensured that all attendees will leave Banja Luka with excellent impressions, even on the topic of entertainment, with the EFT afterparty featuring the phenomenal SoulFingers, organized for accredited participants tomorrow, February 27th. Registrations are still open until midnight today, and the number of available registrations is limited. The full program and registration details can be found at solarsummit.ba.
Moderator’s Statement: Green transformation of companies and corporations in the region – challenges and next steps
The green transformation of companies and corporations in the region is becoming a key factor in competitiveness and long-term sustainable growth. Through presentations and panel discussions, participants will have the opportunity to learn how leading companies are approaching this challenge, what strategies they are implementing to reduce their environmental footprint, and how they are adapting to new regulations and market expectations. The obstacles they face will also be discussed, as well as specific next steps towards more sustainable business, which can be valuable for anyone who wants to steer their organization towards a greener future. The panel will also touch on the topic of CO2 certification. CO2 certification is a key topic in the fight against climate change and sustainable business. Through presentations at the conference, participants could learn how this process works, what are the benefits for companies and the community, and how certification contributes to reducing the carbon footprint. In addition, understanding how CO2 certificates become a competitive advantage in the global market can inspire companies to switch to more sustainable practices and become leaders in the energy transition.
SOULFINGERS LIVE @ BALKAN SOLAR SUMMIT
The parties at the Balkan Solar Summit are unforgettable—and talked about long after they’re over. It’s an energy that renews itself year after year! The EFT Party, part of the Balkan Solar Summit, on February 27, will bring rhythm, energy, and an outstanding musical experience after the lectures and panels! SOULFINGERS – masters of soul and funk – will take the stage at Gatsby for an exclusive concert available only to accredited summit participants. We’ll enjoy premium Tikveš wines and unforgettable hits with a rhythm that moves you and recharges your energy! 📍 February 27 | Gatsby, Banja Luka🎟 Entry for accredited participants only
Moderator's Statement: CBAM – Barriers or Incentives in the Decarbonization Process
The criteria that the CBAM regulation sets for electricity as a CBAM product are incompatible with the key characteristics and principles on which electricity trading is based. As a result, the position of electricity produced from renewable sources within the scope of the current CBAM regulation is so unfavorable that it is almost certain that when importing electricity produced from renewable sources into the European Union, the CBAM tax will need to be paid, directly linked to the EU ETS price for certificates that CO2 emitters within the EU provide and pay. Contrary to the intention of EU legislation to equalize the conditions for products imported into the EU with equivalent products from the EU, electricity produced from renewable sources upon import into the EU finds itself in a position that is entirely unequal with electricity from renewable sources produced within the EU. At the same time, and in contrast to the EU's global efforts to raise awareness about climate change and the need to reduce harmful gas emissions, this creates an unfavorable climate for new investments in renewable energy production capacities, which will, in fact, slow down the decarbonization process in the Western Balkans. Furthermore, the CBAM regulation foresees restrictions on recognizing real emissions for electricity subject to trade agreements, which, after more than 20 years of efforts to optimize electricity flows and harmonize regulatory and market conditions across Europe, will lead to the disintegration of electricity markets. As a result, setting up CBAM as a barrier will not only affect production and decarbonization in the Western Balkans but also the transit of European-origin electricity across the Western Balkans. Considering the positive stance of the relevant institutions in the Western Balkans regarding the decarbonization process, as confirmed by the Sofia Declaration, and the steps and plans of the Western Balkan countries to align with European regulatory frameworks and legislation (such as the formation of energy exchanges in Albania, Montenegro, North Macedonia; harmonization of National Climate Plans; establishment of the MRVA system), it raises the question of whether it would be more sensible to exempt electricity from CBAM and focus all available resources and energy on establishing the necessary frameworks for full integration into European systems, with the goal of achieving Net Zero by 2050. It is certain that the countries of the Western Balkans, predominantly due to their economically disadvantageous position, cannot align with the EU countries in a short time. However, it is also certain that, with uninterrupted dedication to the necessary steps for integration, they can catch up with the EU countries within reasonable timeframes. Text: Uroš Bojanić – EFT Head of Asset Management
Key Challenges of the Green Transition
The green transition presents both a significant opportunity for the future and a serious challenge for the Balkan region. From outdated infrastructure and coal dependency to financial constraints and political decisions, this transition demands solutions that are both realistic and sustainable.How can we improve access to green financing, align with EU Green Deal initiatives, and harness the potential of renewable energy? What role does public-private partnership play, and how crucial is it to strengthen regional cooperation?With renowned experts in the field of energy, representatives of governments, companies, and international organizations, this panel explores answers to key questions and paves the way toward a sustainable, more energy-secure future. Moderator: Aldin Međedović
CBAM – Obstacle or Incentive for Decarbonization?
The implementation of the EU CBAM regulation raises a critical question for the energy sector in the Western Balkans: will this measure accelerate the decarbonization process or create additional hurdles for electricity market participants? This panel will bring together leading experts to assess the real effects of the CBAM regulation – from its impact on electricity production to its potential for either driving or hindering the transition to sustainable energy sources. We will discuss the key challenges and opportunities CBAM presents, as well as the most realistic and efficient scenarios for decarbonizing the energy sector in the Western Balkans. We aim to answer: How can CBAM shape the future of the electricity market?Will this mechanism serve as a lever to accelerate investments in renewable energy or become an additional burden? Moderator: Uroš Bojanić
“Bulls” and “Bears” in the Electricity Market – What Trends Can We Expect By 2035
Although the liberalization of the electricity market began as far back as 1996, it only gained broader public attention a few years ago, during the energy crisis. At that time, many questions were reopened, several decisions became the subject of revision and public debate, but the most pressing question was: what will the price of electricity be?Today, we can discuss whether it was truly an energy crisis or simply new trends in the electricity market. To fully understand the context of the electricity market, its specifics and the complexity of participation, as well as the uncertainty in predicting electricity prices, it is necessary to highlight that: • Electricity is traded on a unified European market, taking into account the laws of electrical engineering as a science and the technical limitations of the power systems of individual countries, which operate within a single European interconnection, • Electricity is traded on long-term, medium-term, and short-term markets that are interdependent, • The price of electricity depends on many factors that are extremely complex in terms of forecasting (meteorology and hydrology, ETS certificate prices, gas, oil, and other derivatives, etc.), • Electricity is impossible to store, at least not to the extent it is produced, etc. All of the above factors contribute to the significant volatility of electricity prices and lead to a very simple but certainly accurate conclusion of any individual electricity market analysis – “this is the truth, but as of today.” What is the actual volatility of the electricity market, what prices will we see in 2025, and can we now discuss trends for the next 10 years?Will batteries and other storage technologies have a significant impact on electricity prices in the future? Will decarbonization and the integration of renewable energy sources lead to lower or higher prices? Can the markets of the Western Balkans function efficiently without being connected to the unified European market, and why not?These are just some of the questions we will address. Moderator: Marko Janković
Completed Major Renewable Energy Project in the Region – Experiences
Completed major renewable energy projects serve as a key indicator of the potential and opportunities for a successful energy transition in the Balkans. This panel gathers key stakeholders and experts who will share their practical experiences from the largest projects in the region, highlighting challenges, lessons learned, and best practices. We'll discuss how these projects have contributed to enhancing energy stability, increasing renewable capacity, and laying the foundation for sustainable development.Through open discussions with sector leaders, the panel will provide answers to questions such as:What were the key factors for the successful realization of projects?How can regulatory, technical, and financial barriers be overcome?What are the main challenges in future OIE projects in the region? The goal of the panel is to provide guidance and inspiration for future initiatives through concrete examples of successful projects, as well as to identify opportunities that can drive further growth and development of renewable energy sources in the region. Moderator: Ranko Goić
Stability and Security of the Electricity System under the Transition to Renewable Energy Sources
The transition to renewable energy sources presents significant opportunities, but also serious challenges for the stability and security of electricity systems, especially in the Western Balkans region. This panel will address key questions:How resilient are our systems to the shift towards renewable energy sources?How can we balance increased demand and variable generation from solar and wind power plants?What reforms and investments are necessary for modernizing and strengthening the resilience of the electricity grid? With energy experts, decision-makers, and grid operators, the focus will be on the real causes of system vulnerabilities, lessons learned from recent events, and concrete steps toward improving security. This discussion will provide answers on how the region can build more resilient grids to support the growth of renewable energy sources and ensure stable supply during the energy transition. Moderator: Luka Okuka
Risk Allocation in Project Structuring – Development, Construction, Financing and Sales
The central question this panel addresses is: how can we identify, assess, and effectively allocate risks among all key stakeholders involved in the project? Structuring renewable energy projects involves navigating complex risks at every stage—from development and construction to financing and final sales. With the participation of experts in investment, banking, project development, and legal advisory, the panel will focus on:Best practices for balancing risks between investors, financiers, and contractors,Reducing uncertainty through clear legal and financial frameworks,Case studies of successful projects in the region and lessons we can apply for. This discussion will provide insights into tools and mechanisms for mitigating risks and enhancing investment security, paving the way for the development of sustainable and commercially viable energy projects. Moderator: Petar Mitrović
Green Transformation of Companies and Corporations in the Region – Challenges and the Next Steps
How can companies in the region effectively start or accelerate their green transformation? Green transformation is no longer just an option — it is imperative for companies and corporations worldwide, including in our region. Transitioning to sustainable business practices, implementing ESG standards, decarbonization, and energy-efficient solutions present numerous challenges but also offers opportunities for companies aiming to lead the green economy. This panel also will address:What are the biggest challenges they face, such as adapting to regulatory frameworks, accessing green financing, and adopting technological innovations?What are the next steps that will enable companies to position themselves as leaders in sustainable development and successfully meet market demands? We will showcase examples of best practices and offer actionable recommendations to help companies adapt to changes, reduce their carbon footprint, and secure long-term competitiveness in the emerging green economy. Moderator: Vladimir Rajić
Integration of Renewable Energy into the Power System with Solutions for Energy Storage – Energy Storage Systems
Did you want to know more about this specific topic? With the increasing share of renewable energy in the grid, the challenge of balancing production and consumption is becoming more pronounced. Energy storage systems enable surplus energy from solar and wind sources to be stored and utilized when it is most needed.Battery systems not only reduce losses and the risk of outages but also pave the way for a more flexible and resilient power system. This panel will focus on:The practical application of battery systems to maintain grid stability,The technical and financial aspects of these solutions,Examples of successful implementations in advanced and transitional energy systems. Through discussions with leading experts, we will explore how energy storage technologies can become the cornerstone of a sustainable energy system—ensuring security, flexibility, and readiness for the future of renewable energy. Moderator: Mustafa Musić
Balkan Solar Summit Delegation at COP29 – Key Themes, Opportunities, and Challenges for the Future
The 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) has officially opened in Baku, Azerbaijan, bringing together over 40,000 delegates from more than 190 countries. This conference comes at a critical time for the world, which is facing record temperatures and accelerating climate change. The focus of COP29 is on transitioning away from fossil fuels and redefining financial mechanisms to address climate crises, with a particular emphasis on supporting developing countries. This year’s event has been dubbed the “Financial COP,” as leaders work to establish a new collective climate financing goal (NCQG) to replace the outdated pledge of $100 billion per year. The new framework aims to mobilize as much as $2.4 trillion annually by 2030, with a focus on investments in renewable energy and climate adaptation. Key themes of the conference include the transition to renewable energy, methane emission reduction, accelerating the development of hydrogen markets, and strengthening clean energy capacity. At last year’s COP28, agreements were reached on the phased elimination of fossil fuels and tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030. However, progress has been slow, and major oil and gas producers continue to expand their projects. This year’s conference serves as a critical test of whether nations are ready to move from promises to concrete results. As the world looks toward Baku, leaders will face calls for bolder climate targets, particularly from developing countries already suffering the worst impacts of climate change. Special attention is focused on the positions of China and the United States, whose policies and commitments can significantly influence the outcome of negotiations and the setting of ambitious goals for all participants. COP29 in Baku highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing climate challenges, and Azerbaijan is using the opportunity to showcase its renewable energy projects, positioning itself as a leader in climate diplomacy and a commitment to sustainable development.
Representatives of the Balkan Solar Summit at the prestigious COP29 conference
Representatives of the Balkan Solar Summit will participate in the prestigious COP29 conference, which will be held this year in Baku, Azerbaijan. This important event, gathering world leaders and experts in the fields of climate change and renewable energy, offers a unique opportunity to promote the Balkan Solar Summit as well as to establish new contacts and collaborations from around the world. “Our goal is to attract renowned participants and speakers to the upcoming Summit during the conference through a series of meetings with international experts, investors, and decision-makers, thus raising the entire initiative to an even higher level,” said Milena Mijatović, director of the Balkan Solar Summit, which will take place on February 27-28, 2025, in Banja Luka. The focus of the meetings will be on exchanging experiences, presenting the opportunities offered by the Balkan Solar Summit, and securing support and attendance from key players in the energy sector. Participation in the COP29 conference in Baku represents an important step towards strengthening international cooperation and raising awareness about the importance of the energy transition in the Balkan region. The knowledge and experiences gained will be applied not only within the Summit program but also in other activities of the Summit, which aims to bring the future of the energy sector to Bosnia and Herzegovina in every possible way.
Panel 7 – Hydrogen as a Decarbonization Fuel for Industry and Transport
The seventh panel of the Balkan Solar Summit, focused on hydrogen as a key factor in decarbonizing industry and transport, moderated by Ivica Jakić with panelists Armin Hrnjić, Sanjin Gutić, Ivica Jelčić, Petar Jakić, and Zoran Božić, presents key conclusions. The panel highlighted the capability of the industry and transport sectors to decarbonize using hydrogen, supported by the construction of solar power plants. This direction in the energy sector points to innovative ways of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to sustainable energy sources.It was concluded that hydrogen is a crucial component of the future of energy, and the implementation of this fuel represents a key step toward achieving a more sustainable and cleaner energy system.
Panel 8 – Small Hydropower Plants in Bosnia and Herzegovina: “Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow”
At the eighth panel of the Balkan Solar Summit, focused on small hydropower plants in Bosnia and Herzegovina under the theme “Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow,” moderator Amer Jerlagić and panelists Dragan Jerinić, Edhem Bičakčić, Ljubinko Kostić, and Armin Hadžijalić shared some of the key conclusions from the panel.The panel engaged in a deep discussion on the role of the profession in the development of small hydropower plant projects, particularly in the context of creating legal and other regulations related to the construction and operation of small hydropower plants. It was concluded that there is a significant need for stricter regulations to ensure compliance with ecological standards and the principles of sustainable energy planning (SEP). The panelists emphasized the importance of balancing energy needs with ecosystem preservation, as well as the need for transparency in decision-making processes and project implementation. These conclusions lay the foundation for further consideration and improvement.
Balkan Solar Summit: The Path to a Sustainable Energy Future
The conclusion of the Balkan Solar Summit marked key steps toward energy transition at the regional level. The conference highlighted that the region is on the right path, but also emphasized the need for further efforts, cooperation, and innovation to fully harness the potential of renewable energy sources (RES). The Balkan Solar Summit confirmed that renewable energy is not only essential but also has no alternative for preserving a healthy environment and building a sustainable future. The forum has become a central gathering place for experts, providing a space for the exchange of ideas and knowledge—key elements in achieving market competitiveness and economic prosperity. Participants recognized the Balkan Solar Summit as a significant step towards the decarbonization of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as the entire region. We thank all participants for their contributions and look forward to the next steps towards a shared sustainable energy future!
Discussion on Renewable Energy Power Purchase and Types of PPA Contracts
The third panel of the Balkan Solar Summit, dedicated to the purchase of electricity from renewable energy sources (RES) and the types of Power Purchase Agreements (PPA), revealed key insights under the moderation of Marko Janković and with panelists Dejan Stojčevski, Uroš Bojanić, Mislav Slade Šilović, Blaž Bušić, and Luka Bjeković.The panel emphasized the importance of long-term PPA contracts and the need for the integration of Western Balkan countries into a unified European electricity market. The risks assumed by both producers and buyers of electricity from RES through long-term PPA contracts were clearly defined. At the same time, the message was sent that the era of comfort is behind us, and if we want renewable energy and a green transition, all parties, including banks, must take certain risks. The 45% increase in the number of PPA contracts in the EU in 2023 shows a more active role for end consumers, particularly through corporate PPA agreements. These conclusions lay the foundation for further.
Financing Solar and Wind Projects: Models and Challenges
At the fourth panel of the Balkan Solar Summit, dedicated to financing solar and wind projects, moderator Petar Mitrović and panelists Neda Lazendić, Vladimir Rajić, Srđan Ožegović, Aldin Međedović, Nenad Radlović, and Francesco Corbo shared the key conclusions.The panel highlighted the need for innovative approaches to financing renewable energy projects (RE), considering the dynamic development of the sector and current challenges. The importance of supporting innovative models that will enable the efficient implementation of projects in line with changes in the RE sector was emphasized. Additionally, the panel stressed the expectation that banks should increasingly favor private arrangements for transactions related to renewable energy sources. It was noted that, so far, projects involving government support, primarily Contract for Difference (CfD) projects, have held a dominant position in securing project financing.These conclusions set the foundation for further consideration of effective and sustainable financial models in the renewable energy sector.
Panel 6 – Green Passport: The New Imperative for Business in the Climate Era
At the Balkan Solar Summit, the sixth panel was dedicated to the “Green Passport” as a new imperative for business in the climate era. Moderator Goran Janjić and panelists Marija Pantelić, Lela Melon, Bojan Gligić, Saša Solujić, and Isidora Džombić shared their conclusions. The panel emphasized that companies today face challenges in adapting to global regulations that significantly impact their operations, particularly in the context of European market demands. The Green Passport is becoming an essential tool for achieving business goals in line with current ecological standards. It was concluded that companies adopting a green approach to business will gain competitive advantages, with the Green Passport becoming a key instrument for building consumer and partner trust in a sustainable future.This panel lays the foundation for further consideration of implementing ecological standards in business practices across the Balkans.
Balkan Solar Summit: Put ka Održivoj Energetskoj Budućnosti
Završetak Balkan Solar Summita označio je ključne korake ka energetskoj tranziciji na regionalnom nivou. Na konferenciji se istaklo da je regija na dobrom putu, ali su naglašeni i potreba za daljim naporima, saradnjom i inovacijama kako bi se maksimalno iskoristili potencijali obnovljivih izvora energije (OIE). Balkan Solar Summit je potvrdio da obnovljivi izvori energije nisu samo neophodni, već i nemaju alternativu za očuvanje zdrave okoline i izgradnju održive budućnosti. Forum je postao centralno okupljalište stručnjaka, pružajući prostor za sučeljavanje ideja i razmjenu znanja, ključnih elemenata u postizanju konkurentnosti na tržištu i prosperiteta privrede. Učesnici su prepoznali Balkan Solar Summit kao bitan korak prema dekarbonizaciji Bosne i Hercegovine, kao i cijelog regiona. Zahvaljujemo svim učesnicima na njihovom doprinosu, a očekujemo i radujemo se budućim koracima ka zajedničkoj održivoj energetskoj budućnosti!