Regional Strategy for Sustainable Hydropower in the Western Balkans

The Regional Strategy for Sustainable Hydropower in the Western Balkans (‘the Study’) was suggested in March 2016, at a meeting of WB6 Energy and Transport Ministers, and included in the Declaration of the 2016 Western Balkans Summit in Paris. The initiative originated from a request from several regional actors for a more integrated approach to hydropower development in the Western Balkans, in light of a). WB6 need for the immediate rehabilitation of old hydropower plants; b). recent development of greenfield projects, particularly of small hydropower plants, frequently undertaken in a manner which would not allow for the sustainable use of water resources in the region, or the protection of the environment, communities, and social heritage.

The Study is now complete. It has identified a series of reform measures which would allow for the sustainable use of water resources in the region. It has also produced an inventory of hydropower plants proposed for rehabilitation and greenfield development. The conclusions of the Study have been subject of further consultations with the relevant institutions in beneficiary countries as well as with civil society organizations.

The assignment has been entrusted to Infrastructure Project Facility 3 and is now complete. Infrastructure Project Facility 7 has provided further support to the consultations.

More details on the Study and associated deliverables may be found here. 

Links

Fourth Update on the Regional Strategy for Sustainable Hydropower in the Western Balkans

Second Update on the Regional Strategy for Sustainable Hydropower in the Western Balkans

Update on the Regional Strategy for Sustainable Hydropower in the Western Balkans