Key Insights from Our Study Visit to Cres and Opatija
To accelerate Serbia's energy transition, we need practical examples, honest dialogue, and strong partnerships. From 8 to 10 October 2025, we found all three on a study visit to Cres, Kvarner, and Opatija, where a delegation of Serbian energy managers, local policymakers, and media representatives met with their Croatian counterparts to exchange direct experience on citizen energy and sustainable local development.
The visit delivered precisely what we hoped for: actionable insights, candid discussions, and a stronger cross-border network ready to drive change.
Cres: A Blueprint for Citizen-Led Sustainability
Our journey began on the island of Cres, where we were warmly welcomed at City Hall by Mayor Marin Gregorović. He shared a powerful vision of how Cres is linking its energy transition directly to quality of life and local economic development.
The conversation deepened with representatives from the Energy Community Otok Cres and the Island Development Agency (OTRA). Franjo Toić provided a practitioner’s invaluable perspective on the challenges and triumphs of launching and running a citizen energy initiative. Ugo Toić from OTRA expertly moderated the session, presenting ongoing projects that serve as a model for community-driven action. We are deeply grateful to OTRA, especially Ugo Toić and Luka Cergolj, for their generous hospitality and support throughout our stay.
Opatija: Data, Digital Tools, and Urban Innovation
In Opatija, the Hubbazia business incubator hosted a focused session on the city’s ambitious energy transition pathway. Francesca Gržinić Kuljanac, Head of the Department for Strategic Planning, Development and EU projects, detailed how Opatija masterfully connects EU projects to its day-to-day municipal services. She highlighted the critical role of data and digital tools in implementing policy and fostering citizen engagement.
We then gained a practical look into the Northern Adriatic Energy Community, with Damir Jurišić and Damir Medved explaining its operational mechanics. Davorka Medved followed by presenting the innovative technical solutions developed under the LIFE DISCOVER project, showcasing how technology can empower communities.
From Planning to Practice: A Visit to JKP Komunalac
To see these strategies in action, we visited the public utility company JKP Komunalac. Director Alan Sanković guided us through the company’s pilot projects, recycling yard, and solar power plants. He spoke with refreshing openness about the factors that enable public utilities to accelerate their transition, as well as the typical bottlenecks that can arise, offering a realistic roadmap for progress.
The Broader Vision: Uniting Nature and Community
Our visit concluded with a trip to the Učka Nature Park and its stunning Interpretation Center. This innovative setting served as a powerful reminder of the ultimate goal: using the energy transition to build resilient communities while protecting our natural heritage. The breathtaking views reinforced that a sustainable future is one where thriving communities and a healthy environment go hand in hand.
We return to Serbia motivated, inspired, and better equipped to translate these valuable lessons into concrete local action. Our sincere thanks go to all our hosts and speakers for their time, expertise, and extraordinary generosity.
About the Study Visit
This study visit was organized by the Platform for Energy Transition (PET) within the project "Strengthening the Role of Energy Managers in the Local Energy Transition in Serbia." The project is supported by German Development Cooperation in Serbia, which is implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für International Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
