A debate over Croatia’s future energy direction has intensified after Prime Minister Andrej Plenković signaled that the site of the thermal power plant Plomin is being considered for a small modular nuclear reactor (SMR) project. The statement immediately triggered resistance from regional leaders in Istria. Boris Miletić made it clear that, while he does not reject nuclear energy outright, he does not see such facilities fitting into the region’s development model, which is strongly oriented toward tourism and renewable energy.
He emphasized that Istria plays a significant role in the national economy and that any projects affecting its long-term identity should require local consent. The local government also questioned whether the central authorities can designate a nuclear site without fully aligning with existing spatial plans at both county and municipal levels. They warned that a lack of transparency in decision-making could weaken public trust and make it harder to implement major strategic investments in the future.
At the national level, officials describe the Plomin option as part of preliminary considerations rather than a final decision. However, the discussion reflects a broader shift in energy policy. The government has already outlined ambitions to significantly expand nuclear power’s role in the country’s energy mix, aiming for a share of around 30% by 2040.
Current plans include the possible deployment of up to three small modular reactors, with the first units potentially becoming operational within the next decade. A proposed legal framework is expected to support this transition, although it does not yet specify exact locations. Instead, it foresees additional planning stages that will determine future siting decisions.
