Ugljevik power plant halts production amid coal shortages and legal disputes

The Mine and Power Plant (RiTE) Ugljevik officially ceased electricity production on October 13, 2026. The shutdown is primarily attributed to unresolved property and legal issues at the ‘Ugljevik Istok 2’ exploitation field, which prevent machinery from extracting coal. While an estimated three million tons of coal reserves exist at the site—enough for approximately 18 months of operation—unresolved expropriation processes have left the resource inaccessible.

The crisis follows a long period of instability, including the takeover of Comsar Energy RS by Republika Srpska for approximately 240 million KM. To stabilize operations through 2029, an additional 275 million KM is reportedly being requested.

Local residents near the mining site report severe living conditions, including heavy dust, sulfur, and metal evaporation. Communities such as Stari Ugljevik, Sarije, Mezgraja, Trnova, and Jablani face infrastructure damage, with destroyed roads and water systems. Residents express fear regarding job security and the lack of institutional response to the environmental and logistical challenges posed by the expanding mine.