Croatia Explores Nuclear Partnerships With Chinese Firms
The nation is vetting technology suppliers for its first nuclear plant as part of a long-term energy security initiative.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Nuclear
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Croatian government representatives met with state-run Chinese energy firms in Beijing to discuss potential nuclear power plant development. The discussions, which are currently non-binding, cover options ranging from domestic plant construction to the deployment of small modular reactors.
Why it matters
The engagement is part of a broader Croatian strategy to secure long-term energy independence while integrating domestic industrial and engineering expertise into global nuclear supply chains.
The government is evaluating diverse technological pathways, including full-scale power plants and small modular reactors, which use factory-built components to lower capital costs compared to traditional large-scale reactors.
The players
State Power Investment Corporation Limited
A major Chinese state-owned energy enterprise that manages a diversified portfolio of power generation assets, including significant nuclear and renewable energy capacity.
State Nuclear Power Technology Corporation Limited
A Chinese state-owned entity focused on the research, development, and engineering of advanced nuclear power technologies.
The details
The Croatian government is utilizing memoranda of understanding—non-binding formal agreements that outline intentions without creating enforceable legal obligations—to facilitate knowledge transfer. This approach allows officials to gather data on economic feasibility and technical specifications from global suppliers. The strategy focuses on ensuring that any future nuclear deployment facilitates domestic industrial participation and technical training for local experts.
Timeline
June 2026: Croatia signed a memorandum of understanding with Canada regarding nuclear energy cooperation.
October 2026: Croatian officials held discussions with representatives from Chinese nuclear energy corporations in Beijing.
The Tech Race
Croatia is positioning itself to enter the nuclear market by leveraging global expertise, including potential expansion at the existing Krško nuclear power plant in Slovenia. This effort follows a formal cooperation agreement signed with Canada in 2026, signaling a multi-pronged approach to selecting technology partners.
The government is currently in an information-gathering phase, meaning no immediate changes to energy infrastructure or procurement policies will affect the public. Stakeholders should monitor future official tender announcements as the government transitions from non-binding memoranda to formal investment commitments.
The takeaway
Croatia is actively vetting international nuclear technology partners to build its first domestic power plant. Observers should track subsequent formal procurement timelines to see which technology providers the government selects for the next phase of its energy program.
Further reading
For updates on the technical and policy developments shaping the sector, visit Nuclear.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Balkan Green Energy News.
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