Five 2026 wells to reverse declining production
Croatian oil and gas company INA expects domestic natural-gas production to rise by around 10% after five new wells are commissioned in 2026. The additional output is intended to reverse several years of declining production. The five wells are expected to add about 350,000 cubic metres per day, with the full effect becoming clearer during 2027.
The expansion is part of an accelerated upstream investment programme launched in September 2025. Croatia’s stated focus is improving domestic energy security and reducing dependence on imported gas.
2025 production mix versus national demand
In 2025, INA produced about 588 million cubic metres of gas. Of that total, approximately 455 million cubic metres came from onshore fields and about 143 million cubic metres from offshore operations. Croatian annual gas demand is around 2.4 billion cubic metres, so domestic production still covers only part of consumption.
This gap underpins the need for additional supply, including projects planned across both offshore and onshore areas.
Northern Adriatic platform work with Edison
Further growth is linked to the northern Adriatic, where INA is working with Edison on a new offshore platform. Four wells are expected to be connected next year. Additional platforms could be added depending on field development outcomes.
The offshore programme is positioned alongside other supply initiatives that target earlier-stage developments and infrastructure requirements.
Onshore drilling, Vermilion assets, and cross-border projects
Onshore exploration has also generated new opportunities. Ten recently drilled wells could together produce around 700,000 cubic metres per day, although additional pipeline infrastructure will be needed before gas can reach the market.
INA has also acquired six gas wells from Vermilion, with potential production start dates from 2029. Longer-term options include Drava 3 and the cross-border Zalata-Dravica project with MOL, which could produce around 750,000 cubic metres per day if partners agree on resource allocation and take a final investment decision.
Storage levels entering winter period
Croatia is entering the winter period with relatively strong storage levels. The Okoli underground storage facility is around 82% full as winter approaches.
