Regulated gas prices and potential subsidy extension
Croatian households could see a 7-8% increase in regulated gas prices from October. The rise would depend on whether the government extends subsidies designed to shield consumers from higher European wholesale prices. A review of support measures covering gas, electricity and fuels is scheduled for September.
The final effect on household bills will hinge on how much of the higher procurement cost is passed through to consumers. Croatia’s new gas pricing year starts on Oct. 1. The regulator HERA is expected to announce final regulated prices towards the end of September.
Wholesale price assumptions and bill impact
Gas supplier Gradska Plinara Zagreb is using a wholesale price assumption of around €48/MWh for the next pricing period. Without additional state intervention, that change could add roughly €3-€3.20 per month to an average household bill. The level of state support therefore remains a key variable for the retail outcome.
European wholesale gas prices have risen strongly during 2026, adding pressure to regulated retail markets. This comes despite relatively comfortable physical supply conditions in Croatia. The pricing update is therefore occurring in a period of higher international commodity costs.
Storage levels and LNG as supply-security buffer
Croatia’s Okoli underground storage facility is more than 70% full. Injections are expected to continue into October and potentially November. LNG access provides an additional supply-security buffer, which reduces immediate shortage risks.
LNG access does not insulate consumers from higher international gas prices. Even with storage and LNG support improving system security, the regulated retail impact remains linked to wholesale cost developments and any subsidy extension decisions in September.
