Croatia plans to use 500 million euros from EU funds for upgrading the electricity network and 80 million euros for large battery storage, to help integrate new renewable energy sources into the national grid, according to Economy Minister Damir Habijan.

The investments aim to integrate new projects into the electricity system faster and connect an additional 1500 MW of new projects by the end of 2024.

Habijan highlighted the importance of focusing on the country’s geothermal potential to contribute significantly to decarbonising the energy sector and achieving energy independence.

Seven geothermal energy exploration fields have been identified in Croatia, with permits granted for researching geothermal waters in 28 areas and six preliminary research areas, where the hydrocarbon agency is conducting investigations.

The national plan for recovery and reconstruction and the European Regional Development Fund envisages investments in the production of hydrogen and setting up hydrogen filling stations, the minister said.