Croatia

Croatia ranks 35th in this year’s CCPI, making it an overall low-performing country. 

It receives a low rating in the Climate Policy, Energy Use, and GHG Emissions categories, but a high in Renewable Energy.

Croatia’s climate performance is characterised by high greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions above the EU average and high energy consumption, but progress in renewable energy installation.

Fossil fuel subsidies are still in place

The CCPI experts criticise that fossil fuel subsidies are still in place in Croatia and fossil fuel infrastructure is being further developed. The LNG terminal on the island of Krk continues to be expanded. This new fossil gas infrastructure included in the EU’s list of ‘projects of common interest’ receives substantial financial support from the EU.

However, progress has been made in renewable energy. Although the current share in the total energy supply is low, a positive trend is visible. Croatia has introduced incentives for installing and producing renewable energy technology. The CCPI experts look negatively on the approval process for renewable energy still being overly long and complicated.

Biomass causes air pollution

Wood and biomass imports have increased significantly in the country in recent years. Energy production from biomass in Croatia accounts for 12.3% of total primary energy production. The experts report that many citizens living in substandard conditions use wood as their primary heating source. This causes air pollution in the affected, mostly rural communities. Stoves are also often old and insufficient, and many houses are uninsulated, increasing the need for more biomass to provide adequate heat. The rate at which houses are renovated for energy efficiency is low. The experts also point to a lack of support for low-income households.

The experts call for more effective policies to address Croatia’s need to raise its climate ambitions. Specific needs are halting of incentives for fossil fuels, more renewable energy power plants, and improved energy efficiency in industry and buildings. The agricultural and forestry sectors should be encouraged to adopt more sustainable practices. The experts want to see climate protection measures prioritised in Croatian policy.

Key Outcomes

CCPI experts

National experts that contributed to the policy evaluation of this year’s CCPI chose to remain anonymous.