Croatia is preparing to significantly strengthen the role of nuclear power in its energy system, with plans to nearly double its share in electricity production over the next decade. The initiative reflects a long-term strategic shift toward stable and low-carbon energy sources.
Speaking at the Three Seas Initiative summit in Dubrovnik, Economy Minister Ante Šušnjar stated that the country aims to increase nuclear energy’s share from 16% to at least 30% by 2030. He emphasized that this target could be surpassed, citing earlier site assessments from the 1980s that may accelerate development, highlighting nuclear power as a cornerstone of energy stability and economic growth.
Croatia already has experience in nuclear energy through its joint ownership of the Krško Nuclear Power Plant, operated together with Slovenia. Building on this foundation, the government is now preparing legislation and an action plan focused on the development of civilian nuclear energy, marking a structured and policy-driven expansion of the sector.
Minister Šušnjar indicated that authorities plan to move forward with constructing a nuclear facility in Croatia, potentially in partnership with neighboring countries. This approach is seen as a strategic move to enhance regional cooperation and long-term energy security.
Nuclear energy is also expected to play a key role in industrial policy, as the government drafts a national industrial strategy for the period 2027–2034. Within this framework, nuclear power is envisioned as a reliable backbone for sustained industrial development and economic resilience.
