Croatia’s Pag island to produce green hydrogen using wave energy

The island town of Novalja could become one of the first in Croatia to begin the production of green hydrogen, and a rare example in the region. Moreover, the local authority would utilize innovative technology.

Croatia adopted its national strategy for hydrogen until 2050 in March 2022. The first hydrogen production facility could be installed in Križevci, according to a report from last year.

The local authority in Novalja on the island of Pag said it started its ambitious and innovative Zero Emission Corridor (ZEC) H2 project with the goal of establishing the production and distribution of green hydrogen – using only renewable energy.

The project represents a key step in the small town’s transition towards sustainable development and energy independence.

The construction of a pilot facility in the Žigljen port has already started

The preparations for the project included an analysis of suitable locations, including the ports of Novalja, Žigljen, and Tovarnele. As the first concrete step, the local authorities initiated the construction of a pilot plant in the port of Žigljen.

The facility would use innovative domestic technology for the generation of electricity from sea waves, the announcement reads. It would be used to power water electrolysis for the production of green hydrogen.

The facility is expected to become fully operational by 2027.

The ZEC H2 project would make Novalja an energy independent, emission-free town by 2030. The project’s main goals are to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase energy efficiency, and encourage the use of renewables.

The construction of the pilot plant is financed through an EU program

The green hydrogen and excess energy would be used to power electric chargers, public transport and utility vehicles, public lighting, and city buildings.

The construction of the pilot plant is financed through the European Union’s Interregional Innovation Investments (I3) Instrument while substantial grants were secured from EU funds.

The ZEC H2 project confirms Novalja’s commitment to sustainable development, environmental protection, and the development of innovations in the green energy sector, the town’s leadership said.

According to data from August last year, there were 32 green hydrogen projects in Croatia. One of them was for the production of hydrogen using sewage sludge.