In a significant move to enhance its gas supply security, the Croatian government has announced the construction of two major gas pipelines, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s energy infrastructure development. The decision underscores Croatia’s commitment to ensuring a stable and reliable gas supply amidst the growing energy demands and geopolitical shifts affecting European energy markets.
The first of these projects, the Bosiljevo – Sisak – Kozarac pipeline, comes with a hefty price tag of €322 million and stretches over 122 kilometers. This pipeline is envisioned as a continuation of the existing Hungary-Croatia interconnection, extending the capacity of the gas transmission network from Zlobin, through Bosiljevo and Sisak, to Kozarac, and further towards Hungary. Upon completion, this pipeline is expected to significantly boost the capacity to a maximum of 400,000 cubic meters per hour, equivalent to 3.5 billion cubic meters annually, depending on the direction of gas flow towards Slovenia.
The second project, the Lučko – Zabok pipeline, valued at €78 million and extending 36 kilometers, aims to achieve a gas transfer capacity to Slovenia of approximately 1.5 billion cubic meters annually. This capacity aligns closely with the peak gas consumption in Slovenia, highlighting the strategic importance of this pipeline in regional energy cooperation and security.
Both pipelines are to be constructed by Plinacro, Croatia’s state-owned gas transmission system operator, reflecting the government’s trust in the company’s capability to execute these critical infrastructure projects.
Damir Habijan, Croatia’s Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, emphasized the strategic significance of these projects, stating that the new gas pipelines will ensure secure and stable gas supplies for Croatia and its neighbors. The potential for further expansion, subject to the interest and needs of other countries, highlights the flexible and forward-looking approach of the Croatian government in enhancing regional energy infrastructure.
These gas pipeline projects have been on Croatia’s list of strategic initiatives since 2018, illustrating the long-term planning and commitment to energy security and regional cooperation. As Europe grapples with energy supply challenges, Croatia’s proactive steps in expanding its gas infrastructure capacity set a positive example of national and regional resilience in the face of changing energy landscapes.
