SOME OF THE BASIC PROBLEMS OF SHORT-TERM AND MEDIUMTERM ELECTRICITY GENERATION IN CROATIA

Abstract

The article analyzes the conditions and limitations in the generation of electricity in Croatia in the next shortterm and medium-term periods (until 2020). The analysis includes the forecasts of the increase in electricity consumption and its relation to the increase in the GDP, the unstable availability and the price of natural gas as the basic source of energy, as well as limitations in the implementation of renewable resources. The article reviews the relative impact of power plants on the environment, particularly with regard to the emissions of greenhouse gases and the resulting damage (external costs). An economic comparison of power plants incl. external costs is presented. The potential importance of a nuclear power plant to Croatia in the medium term is noted, as well as the need to diversify resources and to promptly begin with the preparatory works for any potential option in building power plants.