Thermal power plants in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia: Emissions and pollution control technologies using the example of TPP Stanari

Coal-fired thermal power plants (TPPs) form the basis of the electric power systems of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia, but at the same time they represent the largest sources of emissions of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, solid particles and carbon dioxide. These emissions significantly exceed EU limit values and complicate the process of alignment with EU environmental regulations. This paper examines the state of emissions in TPPs in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia, with particular emphasis on outdated combustion and filtration technologies used in most facilities. Special attention is given to the TPP Stanari, which, thanks to the application of a circulating fluidized bed (CFB) boiler and fabric filters, achieves emission levels in line with EU standards. The findings suggest that TPP Stanari serves as an example of good practice in the region and a reference model for the modernization of other plants. It is concluded that the combination of energy efficiency and advanced emission control systems represents the only sustainable pathway for reducing the ecological consequences of the thermal energy sector.