In a time of rising energy costs, shifting global trade, and tightening EU environmental rules, Bosnian furniture component manufacturer SECOM is proving that going green isn’t just good for the planet—it’s good for business.
With support from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Union (EU), SECOM has taken a major step toward energy efficiency and sustainability by installing a rooftop solar power system at its production site in Visoko. This strategic investment is already delivering measurable savings while helping the company meet the environmental standards required by its key export markets in Germany and Denmark.
Tackling Economic and Environmental Challenges Head-On
Founded over 35 years ago, SECOM specializes in solid wood panels used in high-quality furniture manufacturing. But as global pressures mount—including declining export prices, rising electricity costs, and tougher carbon regulations—the company has been forced to rethink its operations.
“This is one of the most difficult periods we’ve faced,” says Amela Trako, a long-time executive at SECOM. “We had to adapt—to reduce energy expenses and meet new expectations from our European partners.”
That adaptation took shape through a loan from Intesa Sanpaolo Bank BiH, financed under the SME Go Green programme—a joint initiative of the EBRD and EU. The funding enabled SECOM to install five integrated solar panel systems across its production halls, generating a combined 580 kW of renewable energy.
Lower Energy Bills, Higher Business Confidence
The results came quickly. Since launching the solar system in November, SECOM has seen its electricity bills drop by 20%, with even greater savings expected during the summer months.
As part of the programme, SECOM also received a 15% cashback grant, directly reducing its overall investment cost.
“This isn’t just about cost savings,” Trako explains. “It’s a signal to our partners that we’re serious about sustainability and ready to meet EU carbon regulations head-on.”
Building a Greener, Smarter Factory
SECOM’s green journey doesn’t stop with solar panels. The company is also investing in digitalisation and automation to deal with labour shortages in the Visoko area—where many skilled workers have emigrated to EU countries.
The plan includes automating repetitive or hazardous tasks, improving both safety and efficiency, and helping SECOM scale production without compromising on quality.
Zero Waste and Circular Thinking
Sustainability is built into SECOM’s entire business model. Beyond their core production of solid wood panels, the company also processes leftover timber into wood pellets and briquettes, ensuring minimal waste and a circular production cycle.
“That part of the business brings in less than 10% of our revenue,” Trako notes, “but it’s important. It proves that we don’t just talk about green values—we live them.”
Green Transformation as a Competitive Advantage
SECOM’s proactive investments reflect a broader shift across the Western Balkans and European manufacturing: going green is no longer optional—it’s essential for survival in a competitive, carbon-conscious market. With EU mechanisms like the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) coming into play, manufacturers must align with strict environmental standards or risk losing key export markets.
“We’re preparing not just to survive but to thrive,” Trako concludes. “Sustainability is how we stay relevant, competitive, and resilient.”
About SECOM
Based in Visoko, Bosnia and Herzegovina, SECOM is a leading manufacturer of solid wood panels used in high-end furniture. With a strong commitment to sustainability, circular production, and digital innovation, SECOM supplies markets across the EU and continues to invest in green technologies to meet the challenges of a changing global economy.
