Croatia’s EU-level tripartite framework sets a target of 500 MW / 1,000 MWh of additional storage by 2028. A 2026 European research snapshot estimated the country’s operating capacity at about 66 MW. The figures show the difference between Croatia’s storage ambition and its installed capacity.
The target comes as renewable generation in Croatia increases and the country participates in the coupled EU market. Periods of high prices in Southeast Europe provide a market rationale for storage. However, Croatia has not kept pace with battery commissioning in Bulgaria, Romania and Hungary.
Market conditions and project revenues
Regional scarcity drove prices higher across central Southeast Europe in Week 42, when Croatia’s baseload average reached about EUR 230.49/MWh. Storage can benefit from price spreads by charging during solar hours, when prices are lower, and selling into evening premiums. Investors need clarity on the rules governing those revenues.
Key issues include network tariffs, grid-connection treatment, access to system services and revenue certainty. Funding support alone does not make projects bankable, although grants can reduce capital expenditure. Developers also need a clear operating licence and dispatch route, defined grid charges, and predictable rules for charging and discharging.
Rules needed for investment decisions
Uncertainty over these conditions could leave developers with permits but unable to reach financial close. Croatia’s next step is to establish standardised project rules that lenders and optimisers can price. These should include clear arrangements for tariffs and market access.
Clear, consistent rules could help Croatia use its position in the coupled market to turn storage ambitions into operating assets. The outstanding issue is whether project terms will become predictable enough for lenders and developers to proceed.
