Croatia’s HEP Group Announces Major HEP solar investment in Power Plant Project
Croatia is taking a monumental step forward in its green energy transition. The state-owned utility, Hrvatska elektroprivreda (HEP Group), has announced a landmark investment of EUR 110 million to develop a large-scale solar power plant. This ambitious project signals a firm commitment to renewable energy and is set to become one of the most significant solar initiatives in Southeast Europe.
A Landmark Project for Croatia’s Energy Future with HEP solar investment
At the heart of this announcement is a plan to build a solar park with an impressive capacity of approximately 200-250 MW. This investment is a cornerstone of Croatia’s National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP), which ambitiously targets sourcing 36.6% of its gross final energy consumption from renewables by 2030.
The project is slated for development in the eastern Croatian region of Slavonia, with counties like Vukovar-Srijem or Požega-Slavonia being considered. This region is strategically ideal, offering vast, flat agricultural land and high solar irradiance of around 1,400-1,500 kWh/m² annually, ensuring optimal energy generation.
According to official announcements from HEP, construction is expected to commence in late 2026 or early 2027, with the plant becoming fully operational by 2029.
Advanced Technology Driving HEP solar investment for a Greener Grid
To maximize efficiency and output, the project will leverage state-of-the-art technology. Plans include the installation of ground-mounted photovoltaic panels using high-efficiency monocrystalline or bifacial modules. To further boost performance, the facility will incorporate single-axis trackers, which can increase energy yield by 20-25% compared to fixed-tilt systems.
Crucially, the project also includes plans for a significant battery storage component, likely between 50-100 MWh. This integration is vital for ensuring grid stability, allowing for the storage of excess energy generated during peak sunlight hours and its dispatch during periods of high demand or low generation.
Part of a Broader Strategic Vision with HEP solar investment
This EUR 110 million investment is not an isolated effort. It is a key component of HEP’s wider renewable investment strategy, which totals €3.3 billion through 2030. The company is steadily building its green portfolio, which already includes over 400 MW of renewable capacity from hydro, wind, and solar sources. This new plant will join other recent HEP solar projects, such as the 42 MW Jertovec plant and the 111 MW Vinkovci park, cementing HEP’s role as a regional leader in the energy transition.
The project’s funding will primarily come from HEP’s own capital, with the potential for supplementary financing through EU grants, such as the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF).
Economic and Environmental Impact of HEP solar investment
The benefits of this solar plant extend far beyond clean energy generation. The project is expected to:
- Create Jobs: Generate over 500 jobs during the construction phase, providing a significant economic boost to the region.
- Reduce Emissions: Cut Croatia’s carbon footprint by an estimated 200,000 tons of COâ‚‚ per year.
- Enhance Energy Security: Decrease the nation’s reliance on imported fossil fuels, which currently account for about 40% of the energy mix. This move strengthens Croatia’s energy independence amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties.
While challenges such as grid upgrades and land acquisition remain, the project is supported by a favorable regulatory environment, including the 2024 Renewable Energy Act, designed to fast-track such critical infrastructure developments.
This strategic investment by HEP Group is a powerful statement of intent. It not only aligns with the EU Green Deal targets but also paves the way for a more sustainable, secure, and prosperous energy future for Croatia.
For the latest official information, interested parties can refer to announcements on HEP’s corporate website (hep.hr) and filings from the Croatian Energy Market Agency (HERA).
