Exploring the Factors Influencing Expansion of Nuclear Energy in Croatia

Krešimir Trontl,Radomir Ječmenica,Dubravko Pevec,Mario Matijević

doi:10.3390/en14238022

Abstract

Nuclear energy is an option that enables a significant reduction of greenhouse gases emissions at the national and European Union (EU) level. However, it is also an option that is mostly influenced by public opinion and an option that has strong cross-border impact. Croatia does not consider nuclear options, but a possible future turn to nuclear might have an influence on other EU countries. The possibility for such a turn is analyzed, taking into account public opinion as well as historical and economic factors. Based on the results of a public opinion survey, it can be deduced that the Croatian public is not inclined to nuclear energy and considers it a risky option, although nuclear power plants in neighboring countries are not perceived as a high-risk threat. Trust in government as an information source is very low. Despite historical aspects that suggest scientific and expert knowledge capable of handling nuclear build, public opinion and the low economic framework indicate that a turn a to nuclear in Croatia is highly unlikely.

Highlights

A number of experts consider the application of fission nuclear energy for electricity generation as a technology with a minimal CO2 footprint [1,2]
The purpose of the conducted research is to explore the factors influencing the possibility of nuclear energy expansion in Croatia
Historical and economic factors are briefly addressed, we mainly focus on public opinion regarding nuclear energy in Croatia

Summary

Introduction

A number of experts consider the application of fission nuclear energy for electricity generation as a technology with a minimal CO2 footprint [1,2]. Even green activists known for negative attitudes toward nuclear technology in the past are expressing opposite beliefs and supporting the nuclear option as a strong tool for combating climate changes [3]. In the eyes of the public and in the response of the policy-makers, nuclear technology experiences frequent ups and downs. The European Union (EU) is interesting because of two levels of energy strategy planning, European and national, which are both strongly influenced by public opinion. States to decide on their energy mix and to choose the most appropriate technologies.

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