CroatiaThe International Energy Agency warns that Europe faces its lowest natural gas reserves since 2013, raising concerns about potential shortages this winter if diplomatic efforts regarding the Strait of Hormuz fail. In an interview with N1, energy expert Davor Stern stated that while a complete supply shortage is unlikely, consumers should expect higher prices due to the increased reliance on expensive Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) rather than pipeline gas. Stern noted that storage levels are lower than previous years because LNG costs more to store and transport. He attributed slow progress in renewable energy adoption to disorganized systems and investor interests that do not align with state goals, such as insufficient investment in transmission infrastructure. Stern argued that Croatia should aim for energy neutrality by leveraging domestic green energy sources, LNG terminals, and strategic state intervention to ensure investors build necessary grid connections.
Bias read (Progressive): The expert explicitly advocates for strong state intervention and strategic control over energy markets, criticizing private investor motives and emphasizing public interest over market freedom.
