Riding the Waves: Croatia's Green Hydrogen Revolution on Pag Island
Pag, Tuesday, 23 September 2025.
The EU is backing a pioneering project on Croatia’s Pag Island, turning wave energy into green hydrogen. This could change the game for sustainable power in Europe. Exciting, right?
Harnessing the Power of Waves
At the heart of this ambitious project lies the innovative technology that converts the natural motion of the sea into a clean energy source. By utilising submerged absorbers and dissipators, the facility at Zigljen Port transforms wave motion into compressed air and hydrogen. It’s like turning the ocean’s rhythm into an endless power dance! The system boasts a 1 MW capacity, promising year-round operation with a focus on the winter months when wave activity is at its peak [1].
A Multifunctional Marvel
In addition to its primary function, the facility incorporates a multifunctional breakwater that protects the port from erosion. But wait, there’s more! This clever structure also integrates solar power generation, a sea vaporizer, and even supports shellfish farming. It’s a real Swiss Army knife of sustainability, demonstrating how renewable energy projects can serve multiple purposes and benefit local communities [1].
Economic and Environmental Impact
The project aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels in coastal tourism and maritime transport, strengthening Pag’s economy in the process. By applying circular economy principles and using fully recyclable materials, the initiative ensures that its environmental footprint remains minimal. The generated energy and distilled water will not only power port operations but also serve the local community, exemplifying a model that could be replicated in other Mediterranean regions [1].
A Collaborative Effort
This endeavour is a part of the North Adriatic Clean Hydrogen Investment Platform (NACHIP), which brings together twelve partners from Slovenia, Croatia, and Italy’s Friuli Venezia Giulia region. Led by Slovenia’s Institut Jozef Stefan, the collaboration includes entities like META Group and the Municipality of Velenje. With a budget of €10.5 million, of which €7.6 million is funded by the EU, the project underscores the power of international cooperation in driving sustainable energy solutions forward [1].