ZAGREB, 12 Feb (Hina) – The Ministry of Economy has established a working group for nuclear energy, its main objective being to develop legislation and advocate for the construction of small modular nuclear reactors, which could be operational in Croatia within the next ten years.
Economy Minister Ante Šušnjar said that the creation of the working group for nuclear energy is linked to amendments or the introduction of a new nuclear energy law. He pointed out that certain legislative provisions need to be modified or adjusted to keep pace with new developments in science and technology.
The entire process, he explained, will be approached systematically, with each step being carefully planned. Once the law is passed, an agency for nuclear energy will need to be established as a regulatory body.
Šušnjar noted that nuclear energy is a low-carbon, base-load energy source from which green hydrogen and other clean energy can be produced.
He also announced that universities offering nuclear energy courses will revitalise these subjects, restoring their importance rather than leaving them as optional.
He said that experts will determine which areas or locations in Croatia would be most suitable for the construction of small modular reactors, which are not yet present in developed Europe.
He added that large power plants have not been ruled out from the plans, but experts will have their say on the matter.
According to Šušnjar, the working group was set up because this is a crucial issue for Croatia's future, sovereignty and independence, adding that Croatia is a member of the nuclear alliance, which includes most EU countries.
When asked if Croatia is considering joining the new Krško 2 nuclear plant project, Šušnjar stated that Slovenia is pursuing the project independently, but Croatia remains open to such a project if it deems it to be in its interest.
Tadić: A step in the right direction
Physicist and nuclear energy expert Tonči Tadić expressed satisfaction that Croatia recognises EU trends.
"Almost all EU member states are considering small modular reactors, even those that have never had any connection to nuclear energy, like Ireland," said Tadić.
He believes that Croatia has taken the right step at the right time but cautioned that the country must not rush and should thoroughly plan everything.
Saša Medaković, a member of the management board of the Krško Nuclear Power Plant, also welcomed the establishment of the working group for nuclear energy and the opening of opportunities for the development of nuclear capabilities within Croatia.
He added that knowledge gained from the Krško plant could be used in this process.
