Croatia has demonstrated strong readiness for recent changes in the gas market, according to Dalibor Pudic, President of the Croatian Gas Professionals Association. Speaking at the 40th International Meeting of Gas Experts in Opatija, Pudic cited the timely development of the LNG terminal in Omisalj, expanded gas transport infrastructure, increased domestic production, and new storage facilities as key pillars of the country’s preparedness.
Pudic emphasized that the energy transition must balance tradition and innovation. He pointed out that while renewable sources are essential, they alone cannot meet growing energy demands. Hybrid systems that integrate gas with renewables present a viable path toward sustainability, especially in addressing regional challenges such as supply volatility and market instability.
Despite high and volatile gas prices, Croatia managed to avoid a crisis thanks to its infrastructure readiness. Pudic noted that while Europe was caught off guard, Croatia’s investments paid off. He expressed optimism that Croatia could become fully independent from Russian gas within one or two years, provided geopolitical conditions remain stable.
He also highlighted broader European gas issues, such as reduced renewable output—particularly in Germany, where it dropped by 17%—and how that led to increased gas consumption. Storage levels had dipped significantly due to high prices incentivizing early withdrawals, though flexible regulations helped stabilize the situation. The EU’s LNG capacity currently stands at 250 billion cubic meters and is expected to reach 300 billion by 2030.
Domestically, gas prices in Croatia remained among the lowest in the EU, aided by government subsidies. However, Pudic acknowledged that these incentives would eventually be phased out. On infrastructure, he announced that the first phase of the new storage facility in Grubišno Polje has been completed, with full operations expected by 2027. Although its capacity is smaller than the Okoli site, it offers significantly faster gas injection and withdrawal capabilities.
Finally, Pudic emphasized the strategic importance of expanding the LNG terminal in Omisalj, with all additional capacity expected to be fully utilized. He underscored the necessity for Croatia to not only meet its own energy needs but also support neighboring countries once the transport of Russian gas through Ukraine ends.
