Croatia has embarked on a significant renewable energy project, with the groundbreaking ceremony for the Korlat solar project held on May 15, 2025. The project, located in Korlat, a small settlement in Zadar County, will be constructed by a Chinese consortium consisting of Norinco International Cooperation Ltd. and the Shandong Electric Power Engineering Consulting Institute. Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic attended the ceremony, expressing his hope that the project would further deepen cooperation and enhance ties between Croatia and China.
The Korlat solar project is Croatia’s largest photovoltaic power project, with an installed capacity of 99 megawatts. Upon completion, it is expected to generate 165 million kilowatt-hours of green electricity annually, meeting the electricity needs of approximately 50,000 households. The project will also reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 150,000 tons per year, supporting Croatia’s energy transition and green development. The project is scheduled to be connected to the grid in April 2026.
Chinese Ambassador to Croatia Qi Qianjin also attended the ceremony, highlighting the project’s potential to significantly boost regional economic development, create jobs, and improve livelihoods. He expressed his hope that the Chinese consortium would fulfill its responsibilities as the contractor, operate in compliance with regulations, and deliver a high-quality project that satisfies all parties.
The Korlat solar project is not the first collaboration between Croatia and China in the renewable energy sector. The two countries have previously worked together on the Senj Wind Farm project, which was also constructed by Chinese companies. Prime Minister Plenkovic highlighted the successful collaboration on the Senj Wind Farm project, expressing his pleasure in renewing cooperation with Chinese partner companies.
The Korlat solar project is a significant step towards Croatia’s goal of increasing its use of renewable energy and reducing its carbon footprint. The project’s completion is expected to have a positive impact on the environment, the economy, and the local community. With the project’s scheduled completion date in 2026, Croatia is poised to make a significant leap towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy future.