EPBiH seeks contractor for 50 MW solar power plant on Gračanica coal mine

Companies from the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) sphere can apply by January 10 to install the Gračanica solar park with 50 MW in nameplate capacity on behalf of state-controlled power producer Elektroprivreda Bosne i Hercegovine – EPBiH.

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, which only recently got its first utility-scale solar power plant, coal and power producer EPBiH is gradually shaping its energy transition projects. It is focusing on photovoltaics, just like the other two state-owned power companies, with an ambition to set up clean alternatives.

After launching a tender in July for a turnkey contract for a smaller facility within its Breza mining complex, Elektroprivreda BiH is now looking for a contractor for a 50 MW solar power system.

The location is in the Bugojno municipality, on recultivated landfills of another mine. The company’s subsidiary Gračanica, which owns the land, is headquartered in neighboring Gornji Vakuf – Uskoplje.

Solar modules of 660 W in capacity are planned to be used in the project

The photovoltaic project is separated into two units of 25 MW in planned peak capacity. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, which announced the public call, said it would finance the supply and installation with a loan of up to EUR 40 million and some smaller grants. Earlier it suggested it may involve a commercial bank as a co-lender.

Eligible companies can submit bids by January 10, according to the announcement. Authors of the preliminary study determined that solar panels of 660 W in rated power should be purchased.

Speaking at the Belgrade Energy Forum – BEF 2023 in May, EPBiH’s Head of Strategic Development Anes Kazagić said the company allocated funds for the Gračanica solar park from its internal carbon tax. It introduced the mechanism in 2021. The event was organized by Balkan Green Energy News.

The utility is also looking for land owned by municipal authorities, firms and individuals to take it under lease for the installation of solar power plants.