A recent study reveals that the demand for renewable hydrogen in Croatia is expected to reach 26,400 tonnes by 2030. This significant increase is part of a broader energy transition and decarbonisation strategy, aimed at reducing dependence on fossil fuels and promoting sustainable energy sources.
Context and objectives of the energy transition
National Energy Strategy
Croatia has put in place an ambitious strategy to achieve its climate and energy goals. This strategy includes the development of renewable hydrogen as one of the pillars of its energy transition. The country aims to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions while strengthening energy security and creating new economic opportunities.
- Climate goals : Reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Energy security : Reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
- Economic opportunities : Developing new green industries.
Study details
Demand projections
The study projects that the demand for renewable hydrogen in Croatia will reach 26,400 tonnes in 2030, with growth supported by investments in hydrogen production technologies and distribution infrastructure. This demand will be mainly driven by the industrial, transport and energy sectors.
- Projected demand : 26,400 tonnes in 2030.
- Key sectors : Industrial, transport, energy.
Growth drivers
Several factors contribute to this growth, including favorable government policies, technological advances in renewable hydrogen production and international partnerships. Croatia also benefits from its strategic location in Europe, facilitating trade and collaboration with other countries.
- Government policies : Favorable to renewable hydrogen.
- Technological advances : Production and distribution.
- International partnerships : Strategic collaborations.
Challenges and opportunities
Challenges to overcome
Despite the promising outlook, several challenges must be addressed to achieve these goals. Among them, the high cost of producing renewable hydrogen, the need to develop distribution infrastructures and the strengthening of storage capacities.
- Production cost : Currently high.
- Distribution infrastructure : Need for development.
- Storage capacities : Reinforcement necessary.
Economic opportunities
Growing demand for renewable hydrogen offers significant economic opportunities, including job creation in the green energy sector, development of new technologies and increased foreign investment. Croatia can also play a key role in the European hydrogen market.
- Job creation : In the green energy sector.
- Technological development : Innovations and new technologies.
- Foreign investments : Increased investments.
Environmental impact and climate benefits
Reduction of emissions
The use of renewable hydrogen will significantly reduce CO2 emissions, thus contributing to the fight against climate change. Hydrogen can replace fossil fuels in many sectors, reducing Croatia’s carbon footprint.
- Reduction of CO2 emissions : Positive impact on the climate.
- Fossil fuel substitution : Industrial and energy sectors.
Contribution to climate objectives
The transition to renewable hydrogen is part of the European Union’s climate objectives, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Croatia, by adopting these technologies, actively contributes to these objectives and strengthens its position in the global energy transition.
- EU objectives : Carbon neutrality by 2050.
- Contribution from Croatia : Strengthening the position in the energy transition.
Conclusion
The growing demand for renewable hydrogen in Croatia represents a crucial step in the country’s energy transition. With a projected demand of 26,400 tonnes in 2030, Croatia is positioning itself as a key player in the European hydrogen market. Despite the challenges ahead, the economic and environmental opportunities are considerable, offering a promising path to a more sustainable and resilient future.