Kolak: The shipbuilder is stepping up to new technologies

Končar has inaugurated a new laboratory valued at over €20 million in Bedekovčina, Croatia. The facility is designed to test cutting-edge technologies in the electrical engineering sector, with the goal of expanding into international markets and advancing the global transition toward efficient and sustainable energy systems. The opening ceremony was attended by key figures from both the company and government, including Gordan Kolak, President of the Board of Directors at Končar, and Tomislav Ćorić, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. The new laboratory will focus on research and development related to large electric machines and drives. According to officials, this investment underscores Končar's commitment to innovation and its role in supporting Croatia’s industrial growth. Kolak emphasized during the event that the company plans to build another similar facility in the near future, citing current market conditions as favorable for long-term investments in infrastructure and capacity expansion. Kolak stated that the decision to construct additional facilities stems from the belief that such projects are economically viable in the long run. He added that the company is continuously looking for ways to enhance its technological capabilities to meet evolving industry demands. The new laboratory is expected to play a crucial role in developing advanced solutions for the energy sector, aligning with broader national and European Union goals for sustainability and modernization. Ćorić praised Končar’s achievements, noting that the company concluded 2025 with revenue exceeding €1.3 billion. He commended the efforts of Kolak and the team at Končar for their contributions to Croatian industry and expressed confidence in the company’s potential for further success. However, he also acknowledged that there is still room for improvement and urged the leadership to continue pushing boundaries. “If not you, then who?” he remarked, highlighting the importance of Končar’s role in driving progress within the country’s industrial landscape. The inauguration took place amid growing emphasis on renewable energy and smart grid technologies across Europe. As part of its strategic initiatives, Končar aims to position itself as a leader in the development of innovative energy solutions. The new laboratory will serve as a hub for testing and refining these technologies before they are deployed in real-world applications. This includes work on high-efficiency motors, power electronics, and control systems that can contribute to reducing carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency. Industry experts suggest that Končar’s latest investment aligns with broader trends in the European energy sector, which is increasingly focused on transitioning away from fossil fuels. The company’s ability to develop and implement advanced technologies could have far-reaching implications, particularly in countries seeking to modernize their energy infrastructure. With the support of government policies aimed at fostering domestic manufacturing and technological independence, Končar is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities. The project represents one of the largest private-sector investments in Croatia’s industrial sector in recent years. It is expected to create numerous jobs and stimulate local economic activity in the region surrounding Bedekovčina. Additionally, the laboratory will provide training and research opportunities for engineers and scientists, contributing to the development of a skilled workforce capable of meeting the challenges of the modern energy landscape. As the company moves forward with its expansion plans, it faces both opportunities and challenges. The global demand for clean energy technologies continues to grow, presenting a promising outlook for firms like Končar. At the same time, competition from other manufacturers and the need for continuous innovation pose ongoing hurdles. The success of the new laboratory will depend largely on its ability to deliver practical, scalable solutions that address the evolving needs of the energy market.