The Croatian government is exploring the potential installation of a small modular nuclear reactor (SMR) at the Plomin thermal power plant site, a move that has ignited significant debate regarding the future of the country’s energy strategy. Prime Minister Andrej Plenković’s recent remarks indicate that this project is part of preliminary considerations aimed at diversifying Croatia’s energy mix, which currently relies heavily on fossil fuels and renewables.
Regional leaders, particularly in Istria, have expressed strong opposition to the proposed nuclear facility. Boris Miletić, a prominent political figure in the region, articulated concerns about integrating nuclear power into an area predominantly focused on tourism and renewable energy. He emphasized that any developments impacting Istria’s long-term identity must involve local consent, highlighting the importance of regional perspectives in national energy discussions.
The local government has raised questions about the legality and transparency surrounding the designation of a nuclear site, arguing that such decisions should align with existing spatial plans at both county and municipal levels. They caution that insufficient transparency could undermine public trust and complicate future strategic investments in energy infrastructure.
At the national level, officials stress that discussions regarding Plomin are still in their infancy. The Croatian government aims to boost nuclear power’s contribution to its energy portfolio to approximately 30% by 2040, reflecting a broader shift towards embracing nuclear technology as part of its energy transition strategy. Current proposals include deploying up to three small modular reactors, with initial units potentially operational within the next decade.
A legal framework is being developed to facilitate this transition; however, it currently lacks specific site designations. Future planning stages are anticipated to determine where these reactors will be located, underscoring the ongoing complexities involved in aligning energy policy with regional priorities and public sentiment.
