- by croatiaweek
- September 20, 2025
-
in
News
Croatia is set to join the growing number of countries turning to nuclear energy, with plans to construct at least three small modular nuclear power plants (SMRs), according to energy expert Ivica Jakić.
Speaking on HRT’s Studio 4, Jakić explained that the government’s decision comes as part of wider European energy policies.
The European Commission (EC) and OECD have called for the phasing out of subsidised energy prices, pushing Croatia to adapt its strategy.
Subsidies for the general public are ending, but support remains in place for vulnerable groups through vouchers, while small and medium-sized enterprises are also protected.
Despite concerns raised by Croatian National Bank Governor Boris Vujčić over possible inflationary pressures, Jakić noted that Croatia still enjoys some of the lowest energy prices in Europe, behind only Hungary and Romania.
He emphasised that recent increases in gas and electricity tariffs are not driven by market instability but by the need to align with EU rules.
Nuclear as “the energy of the future”
Jakić highlighted how recent international agreements, particularly between the US and UK, have accelerated the development of advanced SMRs.
The European Union now classifies nuclear power as a low-carbon source, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently calling SMRs a key part of the future energy mix.
Unlike traditional nuclear plants, SMRs are compact, safer, and easier to install. They use advanced technologies, including liquid sodium salts, and are designed to operate independently without external cooling systems.
Each reactor contains fuel for up to 20 years, with a lifespan of 50–60 years. In addition, they can deliver up to 500 MW of power and even use recycled nuclear fuel.
Prefabricated and cost-effective
According to Jakić, SMRs are also financially attractive. Their construction time is shorter—around three to four years—with the ability to connect to the grid within five years.
Built in factories and assembled like “Lego blocks”, the plants can be installed directly into the ground with minimal infrastructure needs. Importantly, they store their nuclear waste on site for the entire operational lifetime.
Croatia’s government has yet to determine the exact size of its planned reactors, but Jakić confirmed that the aim is to build at least three units, each consisting of multiple smaller modules.
This decentralised model would reduce the need for long-distance electricity transmission and strengthen energy security.
“Nuclear energy is accepted as the energy of the future,” Jakić said. “Croatia has chosen to move in that direction.”
