The primary objective of this study is to strengthen the World Bank’s understanding of the hydropower sector in the FBiH and to support the Bank’s due diligence regarding PSH projects in FBiH. The study aims to address existing knowledge gaps related to the condition and suitability of potential PSH sites. By doing so, it will enable the Bank to engage in strategic dialogue with clients, development partners, stakeholders, and other interested parties, as well as to conduct thorough due diligence on the detailed project preparation activities undertaken by clients.

Assessment of Potential for Pumped Storage Hydropower Projects in Bosnia and Herzegovina

The World Bank is herewith requesting Expressions of Interest (EoI) from qualified providers of technical consulting services for a project outlined hereafter. An indicative total budget, including VAT, for the services to be procured is US$ 180,000.

The Government of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH) is supported by the World Bank in strategic energy transition efforts, to which the technical consulting services to be procured through this notice are to contribute. The World Bank seeks to engage a technical consultant (the “Consultant”) to strengthen its understanding of the hydropower sector in FBiH. To this end, the Bank is collaborating with JP Elektroprivreda BiH (EP BiH) on an assessment (the “Assessment”) of pumped storage hydropower potential. Two previous technical studies which are relevant to pumped storage hydropower in FBiH will be made available to inform the Consultant’s work.

Scope of Work

The Assessment shall be divided into two phases. For Phase 1, the Consultant shall assess the suitability of promising sites in FBiH for the potential development of pumped storage hydropower assets subject to tentative screening criteria that the targeted installed capacity be 100-200 MW and the targeted storage capacity of 6 hours. Site assessments shall consider aspects of topography, hydrology, geology, connection options, and environmental and social considerations.

For Phase 2, the Consultant shall conduct a high-level techno-economic analysis, including on options for civil structures, for electro-mechanical equipment, and for grid connection. Further, Phase 2 shall consider possible operating models and projected revenues, as well as NPV and LCOE assessments.

The World Bank now invites eligible consulting firms to indicate their interest in providing this Assessment. Interested firms should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services.

Shortlisting criteria

- International experience of the firm and the proposed team in conducting project studies in the hydropower space, including pumped storage hydropower.

- Skills and experience of the proposed multidisciplinary team, led by a seasoned project manager,  and covering civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering; environmental and social assessments; energy economics and financial modeling; and regulatory/permitting processes.

The estimated duration of services is 19 weeks.

Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications but should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected.

A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the [Quality and Cost Based Selection/Consultant Qualification Selection] method set out in the Procurement Regulations.