Europe | September 15, 2025
Economy Minister Ante Šušnjar says nuclear could boost Croatia’s energy security, with options ranging from SMRs to a conventional plant.
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Croatia: Croatia is seriously considering building a nuclear power plant on its territory, Economy Minister Ante Šušnjar has confirmed. The decision on whether the project would feature small modular reactors (SMRs) or a conventional facility will be left to experts.
Šušnjar called nuclear energy a “geopolitical and security gain” for Croatia and suggested that EU funding from the Multiannual Financial Framework could help finance the project.
Although the minister did not reveal current candidate sites, he recalled that in the former Yugoslavia, authorities had looked at Ivanić Grad, Erdut, and Vir island as possible locations. Vir was dismissed due to its importance for tourism.
Croatia already operates the Krško nuclear power plant jointly with Slovenia, and talks are ongoing about building a second unit there. Meetings have also been held with the United States on potential nuclear cooperation.
The minister emphasised that nuclear power is recognised globally and within the EU as a low-carbon source that can support renewable expansion. He added it also provides baseload power for green hydrogen production.
In February, the ministry formed a working group to study the legal framework and practical steps for introducing nuclear energy. The move aligns with wider European trends – only last week, Germany and France agreed to cooperate on shaping an energy policy that includes nuclear as part of the transition to clean power.
Source: Balkan Green Energy News
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