Croatia pushes nuclear law to hit 30% of power mix by 2040

Draft law proposes nuclear to reach 30% by 2040 The Croatian government has sent a draft law on nuclear energy development to parliament, setting a target that nuclear power should supply at least 30% of the country’s total energy mix by 2040, reflecting a strategic shift toward low‑carbon sources [1].

Law mandates planning within six months, plan within a year The legislation obliges the responsible minister to begin civil nuclear planning within six months of its adoption and to present a comprehensive development plan within twelve months, establishing a clear timetable for implementation [1].

Officials cite rising demand and security as drivers The government argues that rapidly growing electricity demand and the need for energy security make nuclear power an attractive low‑carbon, stable, and cost‑effective option for Croatia’s future energy system [1].

Croatia co‑owns Krško plant, supplying 16% of power Although Croatia has no domestic nuclear capacity, it co‑owns the Krško nuclear power plant with Slovenia, which currently provides about 16% of Croatia’s electricity, underscoring existing reliance on nuclear imports [1].

Working Group studies SMR versus large reactors Established in 2023, the Working Group for Nuclear Energy is tasked with evaluating financial and economic aspects of small modular reactor (SMR) technology compared with conventional large reactors to determine the optimal path for new domestic capacity [1].

Joint Krško expansion under discussion, referendum 2027‑28 Croatia has explored a joint second reactor at Krško, while Slovenia proceeds with its National Spatial Plan and a referendum on the new unit slated for late 2027 or early 2028; no joint decision has been announced, and Croatia remains a signatory to a declaration to triple nuclear capacity by 2050 [1].