The Jubilee 40th International Scientific & Expert Meeting Gas Professionals, with an exhibition of gas equipment and technology, was successfully held at the Congress Center of the Grand Hotel Adriatic in Opatija from 7 to 9 May 2025 and organized by the Croatian Gas Association (CGA), members of the International Gas Union (IGU) and the Croatian Gas Centre Ltd.
The meeting was held under the auspices of the President of the Republic of Croatia, Zoran Milanović, the Ministry of Economy, the Ministry of Physical Planning, Construction and State Assets, the Croatian Chamber of Economy and the Croatian Hydrocarbon Agency. The meeting was also supported by the main partner Prvo plinarsko društvo d. o. o., including the sponsors INA–Industrija nafte d. d., Plinacro Ltd., LNG Croatia LLC, Monter-strojarske montaže d. d., Međimurje-plin Ltd., Siemens Energy Ltd., HEP d. d., Borealis Ltd., Gas Teh Ltd., MET Croatia Energy Trade Ltd. and the co-organizers Podzemno skladište plina Ltd., EVN Croatia Plin Ltd., Gradska plinara Zagreb Ltd. and Termoplin d. d. Varaždin.
Over three days, about 600 participants from 20 countries attended the meeting. This year, the well-attended event gathered numerous gas and energy experts, including scientists from Croatian and European universities, managers of energy companies, representatives from energy organizations in the gas sector, representatives of large industrial gas consumers, as well as manufacturers and distributors of gas equipment both domestically and abroad. Eight roundtables and five engaging interactive panel discussions were held. A selection of scientific and professional papers was presented. In all, A total of 191 gas and energy companies and organizations were represented at the gathering. In all, 30 exhibitors (17 from abroad) showcased their products and services in the exhibition area in front of the congress hall.
The interesting conference program covered nine current thematic units concerning the most relevant topics in the natural gas industry and energy transition, featuring interactive panel discussions, roundtables, and a poster session.
At the opening of the meeting, the president of the Croatian Gas Association, Assoc. Prof. Dalibor Pudić, PhD., greeted the attendees warmly. He pointed out that the energy industry is facing challenges and opportunities as it undergoes a deep transformation. Global tensions are causing energy price fluctuations, leading to some certainty in decision-making, while also encouraging innovation and change. An increasing global population has resulted in a growing demand for energy. He sees a sustainable energy future relying on a combination of gas and renewable energy sources. This conference is a good opportunity to exchange ideas, knowledge, and experience.
The Envoy of the President of the Republic of Croatia, Zoran Milanović, Julije Domac, PhD., and Special Advisor on Energy and Climate to the President of the Republic of Croatia, and director of the North-West Croatia Regional Energy Agency, mentioned that in recent years energy is seen not only as a commercial commodity but also a strategic resource essential for the security of the nation’s citizens and the stability of the country. He added that gas will remain a significant factor in determining the energy balance of Croatia, along with a reliable supply from multiple supply routes and reliance on domestic renewable energy resources (RES).
The Envoy of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Croatia, Andrej Plenković, Vedran Špehar, State Secretary at the Croatian Ministry of Economy, stated that the security, affordability, and decarbonization of energy supply are essential factors in Croatia’s energy policy. Natural gas will continue to play an important role in the transition to a green and sustainable economy. Natural gas and the LNG terminal on the island of Krk have allowed our country to become an increasingly important energy hub in this region of Europe in recent years. He particularly emphasized that the energy supply security for Croatian citizens and industry remained assured even during the energy crisis.
Snježana Đurišić, the Director of the Directorate for Spatial Planning at the Ministry of Physical Planning, Construction and State Property of the Republic of Croatia, highlighted the importance of natural gas for the safety, stability, and transition of our energy system. She sees natural gas as a bridge towards renewable energy sources in the energy transition. This Ministry believes that the gas sector is an important partner in spatial planning processes.
Zvonimir Šibalić, a member of the Management Board of the company Prvo plinarsko društvo Ltd., said in his talk that he sees natural gas as an essential energy source for many years to come, indispensable for the overall energy sector and defining its direction of the sector, which is today’s situation. He believes that considerable investment in the development and consumption of renewable energy sources (RES) will be necessary for years to come, and these sources are on an equal footing with natural gas.
The President of the Management Board of INA-Industrija nafte d. d., Zsuzsanna Ortutay, highlighted the company’s investments in a series of renewable energy projects, such as the production of green hydrogen and biomethane. She announced an increase in oil and gas production from existing and new fields to utilize domestic sources and ensure supply security. Therefore, already confirmed and developed existing exploration areas should be placed into production again to reduce current imports by seven to ten percent by the year 2027. She also said INA-Industrija nafte d. d. will invest in energy efficiency improvement projects costing from 50 to 100 million euros.
A member of the Management Board of Plinacro Ltd., Daria Krstičević, MSc., spoke about the Croatian Government’s strategic decision on constructing an LNG terminal on the island of Krk, recognizing the need within the project to increase the capacity of the terminal from 2.9 to 6.1 billion cubic meters. Strengthening the gas infrastructure capacity is also essential for improving supply security in the Republic of Croatia and transporting gas to neighboring markets, which in turn will contribute to the creation of an energy hub for central and southeastern Europe. She reminded attendees that the trial operation of the Zlobin–Bosiljevo gas pipeline had begun, and work was underway on the Zabok–Lučko pipeline, which will significantly increase capacity towards Slovenia. Preparations are continuing for the construction of the remaining two pipelines: Bosiljevo–Sisak and Kozarac–Sisak. Activities are also taking place for the construction of the Ionian-Adriatic gas pipeline and the southern interconnection with Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The President of the Management Board of Siemens Energy Ltd., Boris Miljavac, presented data indicating that the company had manufactured 7,400 gas turbines, positioning them as one of the largest manufacturers in the world. The new models are structurally ready for natural gas and hydrogen mixtures, which will have a key role in the future, as well as natural gas in the energy transition process. The company invests heavily in R&D (1.2 billion euros last year) and collaborates with the largest universities in the world, where 4,300 experts are working in their research team.
The Director of the Podzemno skladište plina Ltd., Vlado Vlašić, stated that the last heating season finished with an unprecedented record low quantity of gas at the Okoli storage (dropping to just eight percent at one point). Nonetheless, consumers did not experience any supply issues. He announced the completion of the tender for the lease of storage capacity until the end of March 2031, which had generated significant interest. The filling cycle for the Okoli storage is currently taking place. At the location of the future storage facility in Grubišno Polje, production from the reservoir is still ongoing, in preparation for making the storage operational by the end of 2027.
The Director of the company LNG Croatia LLC, Ivan Fugaš, announced that in October 2025, the increased capacity of the LNG terminal on Krk will become operational, making Croatia a main energy hub for this region of Europe. Preparatory efforts have reached an advanced stage and are progressing as scheduled, with the LNG terminal on the island of Krk set to be ready for the heating season.
In the introductory part of the conference, a keynote presentation was given by Andrea Stegher, Vice President and incoming President of the International Gas Union (IGU) (2025-2028), who highlighted that the demand for energy continues to grow, with gas playing a key role in fulfilling consumer needs.
Investments in gas from production to downstream are essential, given the current fragile balance in the global market. The gas market is global thanks to liquefied natural gas, which has become critical for meeting flexibility and diversification. Marina Piškorjanac from the company Prvo plinarsko društvo Ltd. talked about supply routes and market stability amidst global challenges. She emphasized that the European natural gas market is undergoing extensive alignment, restructuring, and the contracting of new supply routes due to a reduction in deliveries of Russian gas. In this dynamic environment, continuously monitoring movements and adjusting business decisions is essential. In 2024, of the 320 billion cubic meters of gas consumed, about 10 percent was produced in the EU. The issue of natural gas in the global energy transition and energy trilemma balancing between energy security, sustainability, and affordability was presented by Moty Kuperberg from the Israeli Institute for Maritime Policy and Strategy. Global energy transition requires approaches different than those of the past five years. We require a greater supply of gas to more countries from a wider range of sources and for longer contract durations, as energy security takes priority in the energy trilemma, he emphasized.
A panel discussion was held after the invited lecture. The panel moderator was Marko Biočina, and the participants included: Julije Domac, PhD., from the Office of the President of the Republic of Croatia and the North-West Croatia Regional Energy Agency, Zvonimir Šibalić from Prvo plinarsko društvo Ltd., Zsuzsanna Ortutay from INA-Industrija nafte d. d., Petar Sprčić, MSc., from HEP d. d., Assoc. Prof. Darko Pavlović, PhD. from Plinacro Ltd., Ivan Fugaš from LNG Croatia LLC, Boris Miljavac from Siemens Energy Ltd., and Nenad Hranilović from Međimurje plin Ltd. 
The panelists spoke about the role of natural gas in the energy transition, and the need for larger investments in energy to increase gas production in Croatia. Accordingly, newly discovered gas reserves were welcomed. The main drawback of renewable energy sources (RES) is insufficient flexibility, hence the need for adequate storage facilities. Natural gas is a sufficient solution due to its complementary nature with RES. In recent years, gas imports from Russia have significantly decreased due to sanctions, and a complete ban on such imports by the EU was recently announced. There is no reason for anxiety in replacing the once-dominant supplier (Russia) with a new supplier (the USA), given that LNG can be delivered from all over the world to the terminal on the island of Krk, keeping in mind that the USA is the largest LNG supplier for Europe. Therefore, informing end customers about European and Croatian regulations and activities to ensure uninterrupted gas supplies is important. From an engineering standpoint, energy rationalization requires avoiding the overlapping of gas and heating networks in cities, which is the rule in Germany. Gas will remain an important energy source for decades to come due to its flexibility. Moreover, a hasty energy transition and replacing it with RES would be too costly. Financial sustainability in initiating and implementing energy transition is fundamental, allowing consumers and other entities in the energy market to survive financially. However, a gradual reduction in household consumption of natural gas is expected and which accounts for 56 percent of the gas consumption in Croatia. Nevertheless, thermal power plants remain a significant consumer of gas, which is also used in the Petrokemija fertilizer plant in Kutina – products are important for the agricultural industry. The panelists do not expect significant gas price hikes in Croatia as the Croatian Government retains the ability to regulate gas prices.
After the panel discussion, Marijan Krpan, MSc., from the Croatian Hydrocarbon Agency, presented global gas production trends and an overview of gas exploration activities that took place in Croatia in 2024. In that year, three companies undertook intensive drilling and reported significant hydrocarbon discoveries, allowing Croatia to further reduce its dependence on energy imports. Josip Bubnić from INA-Industrija nafte d. d., Marius Paul Nowak from Vermilion Zagreb Exploration Ltd., and Gabor Bada from Aspect Energy presented their companies’ perspectives on ongoing hydrocarbon exploration and production, as well as increasing natural gas production in Croatia. Laslo Farkaš Višontai from the company Podzemno skladište plina Ltd. gave a brief overview of thirty-eight years of underground gas storage activities in Croatia, from the completion of the first Croatian underground gas storage facility in Okoli (then the 13th storage facility in the world) to the present day. He also discussed the project and preparations for the future underground gas storage in Grubišno Polje. Anders Hellberg, MSc., from Siemens Energy Ltd. presented the technology developed by the company on reducing CO2 emissions through high-efficiency gas turbines and combined cycle. Luka Cener from Plinacro Ltd. spoke about the timeline for the construction of the new Zlobin-Bosiljevo DN 800/100 gas pipeline, for which non-repayable financial support (grants) were allocated from the Recovery and Resilience Mechanism as part of the Strengthening Gas Infrastructure project. The construction was successfully completed on 20 February 2025. Following the previous presentation, Danijel Gračan from Plinacro Ltd. gave a talk on the connection of the Zlobin–Bosiljevo DN 800/100 pipeline and its impact on the gas transportation system and its integration into the SCADA system. Krešimir Kekez from PA-EL Ltd. explained how the optimized inspection of the cathodic protection of the 14″ subsea gas pipeline in the northern Adriatic was conducted to prolong the lifespan of the infrastructure. The application solution in medium-term planning for the utilization of thermal power plants and thermal power plants-heat plants belonging to HEP-Proizvodnja Ltd. called PlanPRO EEB was presented by Marin Dumančić from HEP Proizvodnja Ltd. The application covers planned availability, thermal consumption needs, variants of combined production, as well as the production of electrical and thermal energy, fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, and calculates the production costs of electrical and thermal energy for thermal power plants and thermal power-heat plants.
After the introductory presentations were given by all the lecturers on the respective theme, an interesting panel discussion ensued, moderated by Marko Biočina, which included: Assist. Prof. Nikola Vištica, PhD., from the Croatian Energy Regulatory Agency, Marijan Krpan, MSc., from the Croatian Hydrocarbon Agency, Josip Bubnić from INA – Industrija nafte d. d., Laslo Farkaš Višontai from Podzemno skladište plina Ltd., and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vladislav Brkić, PhD., from the Faculty of Mining, Geology, and Petroleum Engineering, University of Zagreb. The panelists emphasized in their introductory remarks that gas remains a key energy source for economic growth and will continue to play an important role for a long time in the future. The Republic of Croatia has set a good course in strengthening its gas infrastructure capacity through capital investment projects. The modernization and expansion of the gas transport and storage systems are key in reducing energy dependence and increasing supply security. Ina-Industrija nafte d. d., Vermilion Zagreb Ltd. and Aspect Croatia Kft. are companies that have been given concessions in Croatia. In 2024, they drilled a total of nine exploration wells and reported hydrocarbon discoveries. Natural gas from new discoveries will account for more than 40% of total domestic gas production by 2029. The capacity of the underground gas storage at Okoli meets all current market demands for gas. To further enhance supply security in Croatia, the gas storage system operator ensures mandatory (strategic) gas reserves and the construction of new storage capacities (Grubišno Polje). To realize all the current projects, the Faculty of Mining, Geology, and Petroleum Engineering at the University of Zagreb trains a sufficient number of top-quality professionals who can meet complex engineering demands. The panelists concluded that the development and maintenance of gas infrastructure and investment in domestic natural gas production are the basis of stability and energy security for Croatia.
Assoc. Prof. Darko Pavlović, PhD., from Plinacro Ltd. touched on how the European hydrogen paradigm opens up new energy transition opportunities based on six key ecological aspects of the hydrogen transition. He referred to the potential of hydrogen in the decarbonization of industries, transportation, and the energy sector, with a particular emphasis on its role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing energy efficiency. Alan Vranjković, PhD., from INA-Industrija nafte d. d. elaborated on the research potential of natural or white hydrogen for economical and sustainable hydrogen production, with the key contribution coming from the oil and geological sector, which is currently going through an energy transition process. He also spoke about the geological elements of the white hydrogen system at locations in Southeast Europe and Croatia. Prof. Daria Karasalihović Sedlar, PhD., from the Faculty of Mining, Geology and Petroleum Engineering, University of Zagreb, talked about the mixing of varying amounts of hydrogen with natural gas and its impact on the quality parameters of the gas. A recent study has shown that hydrogen blending significantly affects the methane number, which could present a serious challenge due to its harmful impact on the performance of internal combustion engines. Norbert Jansen from Borealis GmbH believes that existing and new gas networks should be compatible with hydrogen and a blend of hydrogen and/or natural gas or biogas. He also presented a program for the production of polyethylene pipe systems for the future supply of gaseous fuels at pressures of up to 10 bar. Blaž Likozar, PhD., from the Chemical Institute in Ljubljana explained the potential for electrifying energy-intensive industries using hydrogen, ammonia, e-methane, e-methanol, and e-chemicals. Tommaso Russo from Automa S.R.L. showed the Horizon Hydra project with the purpose of enhancing the safe and sustainable monitoring of hydrogen. The goal is to ensure higher safety standards, reduce environmental risks, and improve the sustainability of hydrogen infrastructure. The project is funded by the European Commission under the Horizon program. Dario Kovačević from Borealis GmbH spoke about the polymers produced by Borealis GmbH their use in pipe applications and contribution to greater sustainability as a pipeline system compared to traditional materials. Materials from renewable raw materials can be used for polymer production, leading to further reductions in CO2 emissions.
After the introductory presentation, a panel discussion ensued and was moderated by Assoc. Prof. Darko Pavlović, PhD., with the following participants: Ivica Jakić from the Croatian Association for the Development and Application of Hydrogen Fuel Cells H2-Hydrogen Cell, Bruno Lacković from Gradska plinara Zagreb Ltd., Alan Vranjković, Ph.D., from INA-Industrija nafte d. d., Prof. Daria Karasalihović Sedlar, Ph.D., from the Faculty of Mining, Geology and Petroleum Engineering, University of Zagreb, Norbert Jansen from Borealis Polymere GmbH, Tommaso Russo from Automa S.R.L., and Blaž Likozar, Ph.D., from the Chemical Institute in Ljubljana. The panelists agreed that the policies behind developing the use of hydrogen should be defined by governments to help entrepreneurs find the best practical model. Accordingly, the participants highlighted the importance of enacting regulations to mitigate costs and increase the use of hydrogen. The price of hydrogen in the market will determine the schedule and pace of its utilization—which is crucial. When green hydrogen reaches a price similar to that of natural gas, its market share and consumption trends will also increase, including investments. The moderator of the panel discussion carried out a small survey among the attendees as to what is most important for developing the market and the greater utilization of hydrogen. The responses were fairly divided. He noted that an adequate combination of political decisions, technological innovations, and market opportunities will best stimulate increased use of hydrogen, and experts should be the ones to actively promote and develop this approach. The beginnings of RES development were also discussed. Before the introduction of feed-in tariffs, there were no investments in RES due to high production prices from wind and solar power plants. However, after the introduction of these incentive tariffs, investments increased. New research has shown that, under certain conditions, incorporating up to 30 percent hydrogen into natural gas should not cause issues for distributors, but more detailed analyses are necessary. Polyethylene pipes have been tested and can transport hydrogen at pressures of up to 10 bar. The panelists concluded that hydrogen is a good solution for energy storage, such as for surplus from solar and wind power plants, and that hydrogen consumption will have an important role in the future.
Ivan Fugaš, from LNG Croatia LLC, presented the core project for expanding the capacity of the LNG terminal on the island of Krk. This expansion is based on the installation of an additional regasification module with a maximum regasification capacity of 250,000 mᶟ/h, located on the bow side of the FSRU vessel LNG Croatia. The new module is supplied as a finished element, complete with built-in equipment and integrated into the existing system on the FSRU vessel LNG Croatia. The presentation was followed by Marko Grbić, from LNG Croatia LLC, who explained how the connection between the LNG terminal on the island of Krk and the electrical grid was carried out, as well as the challenges the company had to overcome. Florian Werner, MSc., from the Austrian company TEADIT International Produktions, explained the method for determining seal characteristics at low temperatures. Jonathan Britain from EffecTech Ltd. discussed accurate energy measurements for fair and profitable LNG transactions, where even minor errors can lead to significant financial losses.
Prof. Daria Karasalihović Sedlar, PhD., from the Faculty of Mining, Geology, and Petroleum Engineering, University of Zagreb, spoke about the sale of biogas and biomethane in the European Union and the challenges of injecting biomethane into the gas system. Based on current research, a comprehensive assessment for the expansion of the biogas and biomethane industry in the EU was presented in line with existing EU laws, strategies, and policies. An analysis of the possibilities for biomethane production in Croatia was presented by Vlatka Kos Grabar Robina from the Energy Institute Hrvoje Požar, which pointed out the challenges of methane production and use. Željka Pinjuh Ćorić from the Gradska plinara Zagreb Ltd., referred to the issues of identifying the criteria and parameters for the engineered and safe injection of biomethane into natural gas distribution systems. Prof. Luka Perković, PhD., from the Faculty of Mining, Geology and Petroleum Engineering, University of Zagreb, noted that the gas sector will face many technical challenges during the coming transition to climate neutrality. He elaborated on the possibility of decarbonizing the Croatian gas sector to achieve the climate neutrality of energy systems. Klaus Payrhuber, PhD., from INNIO Jenbacher GmbH & Co OG, believes that decentralized gas energy production has advantages in achieving balanced energy at the point of use and can be installed in locations where both electricity and heating are needed. He provided an overview of gaseous fuels for distributed energy production at the point of use. Tommaso Russo from Automa S.R.L. presented the Golem-zero product: a smart regulator for the dynamic integration of biomethane. The product can be applied when integrating biomethane into existing gas distribution networks.
To encourage organizations toward more rational energy consumption, an international standard, ISO 50001 Energy management systems – Requirements with guidance for use, was adopted in 2011. Mihael Slunjski from the company Plinacro Ltd. demonstrated how the standard is operationally implemented in the company. Fikret Nasić from Gradska plinara Zagreb Ltd., presented the research into the hydrodynamic characteristics of gas flow meters for turbine drive, at the specified flow range under atmospheric pressure, and followed up with a presentation discussing the behavior of low-pressure gas regulators (at higher inlet pressures). The distribution system of the Gradska plinara Zagreb d. o. o. consists of 464 kilometers of steel pipelines, of which 171 kilometers are high-pressure pipelines, and a smaller section is set in a ring shape, and the larger section is laid in a radial shape. Luka Vresk, from Gradska plinara Zagreb Ltd, demonstrated how the maintenance of steel pipelines is carried out in the distribution area of the Gradska plinara Zagreb Ltd. In times of crisis, natural gas becomes an indispensable energy source for heating, cooking, providing sanitary hot water, and cooling, with minimal equipment available in various types of terrain. Josip Kelemen, from the company AGT Ltd. believes that natural gas should be declared a strategic energy source, with available stocks of gas cylinders and small tanks set aside for emergency situations. Nenad Gaković from Gas Teh Ltd.. presented the air and LPG mixture as a substitute facility for natural gas. The transition from one fuel is smooth, without the need for additional adjustments to the operating devices. Damir Jeličić from Pico Flow Controls Ltd. showcased a particular innovation: a multi-part gas container (MEGC) on a semi-trailer – an innovative solution for transporting and storing compressed natural gas, and the ability to adapt it to other gases like hydrogen and biogas. This provides flexible distribution of natural gas to various locations, adding value in terms of system adaptability.
After the presentation, a panel discussion was held, moderated by Dean Gnjidić, and which included: Goran Babić from the Croatian Energy Regulatory Agency (HERA), Srećko Ezgeta from Gradska plinara Bjelovar Ltd., Robert Bošnjak from Plinacro d Ltd., Marko Blažević from HEP-Trgovina Ltd., and Marko Križanec from Energo Ltd. The panel discussion began with the gas distributors highlighting that for the past four years, despite high inflation, rising costs and necessary investments, the Croatian Energy Regulatory Agency (HERA) has not increased distribution tariffs, which in turn has led to less investments for maintenance, system security, and the ability to expand distribution systems. Gas distribution is capital-intensive and must offer a return on investment, but the situation is unsustainable due to excessively low tariffs. A recent conversation between distributors and representatives of the Croatian Energy Regulatory Agency (HERA) on the need to correct the existing methodology and changes to tariffs for the upcoming regulatory period offers optimism and room for improvement. The Croatian Energy Regulatory Agency (HERA) acknowledges the accumulated problems faced by distributors over the past crisis years, which have also led to operational liquidity issues. The system operator, just like the distributors, is in a similar financial situation, except that the scope of problems is equivalent to the magnitude of discrepancies in asset values. Therefore, a solution to the problem should be found with the Croatian Energy Regulatory Agency (HERA) as soon as possible to help everyone cope with these crisis years and create a situation where normal business operations can resume. The issue of suppliers who are required to invest in energy efficiency was also highlighted, as they risk penalties starting in 2030 (if they fail to fulfill obligations) for the entire regulatory period that began in 2020. At the end of the panel discussion, the gas distributors and suppliers welcomed the plans for the complete deregulation of the market by 2027 and the cessation of measures, as well as the announced changes in the methodology and increase in tariffs by the Croatian Energy Regulatory Agency (HERA). Luka Dermišek from Plinacro Ltd. spoke about his company’s contribution, as the operator of the Croatian gas transmission system, in implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/1787 on the reduction of methane emissions in the energy sector. These achievements make Plinacro d. o. o. an example of good practice in aligning local energy strategies with European and global climate goals. Antonio Horaček, also from Plinacro Ltd., explained the importance of managing and monitoring the gas transport system from the National Dispatch Center in Zagreb. He presented methods and how dispatchers operate the gas transport system remotely. Talisa Cesaroli, from Italgas Reti S.p.A., explained the use of the new smart gas meter Nimbus (an innovative multi-sensor device), based on multi-channel connectivity and cybersecurity in the gas distribution segment. Naser Bader AlSaleh elaborated on the challenges, solutions, best practices, and results of the evolution of digital transformation in the Ministry of Oil of Kuwait. Digital solutions have led to increased productivity, reduced human errors, and improved work efficiency, as well as the increasing accuracy of data analysis, all due to interoperability between operational technologies (OT) and information technologies (IT). Francesco Ciocca, PhD., from Picarro Sàrl presented innovations in measuring, quantifying, and reducing methane emissions, providing natural gas operators with a proven pathway to achieving net-zero methane emissions. The use of advanced mobile technology to detect leaks, combined with a comprehensive data analysis package, Picarro provides precise and scalable direct measurements of methane across entire networks. Amir Irvanian, MSc., from Esders GmbH, presented the technology in methane emissions monitoring reports. The reporting ensures the delivery of emissions data promptly and accurately to regulatory authorities. Damjan Smoja from ATD Solucije Ltd. discussed strategic risk management of critical infrastructure and business operations in line with the green transition. A practical analytical calculation demonstrated the sensitivity of facilities and infrastructure when exposed to physical hazards.
A talk on the last forty years of holding the International Scientific-Expert Meeting of Gas Professionals and its contribution to the development of gas applications in transport was given by Zoran Dojčinović from the Croatian Gas Association and Davor Matić, MSc., from Energetska akademija Ltd. The review of published papers and their key elements was complemented by a parallel overview of the development of the market for various types of gases used in transport in Croatia during the same period, highlighting its main features and aiming to provide a comprehensive perspective. A retrospective of the construction of the CNG filling station in Slavonski Brod was presented by Krešimir Marijanović from Brod-plin Ltd. The ambitious plan from 2014 has, to this day, resulted in a CNG filling station with year-round operating hours, located on the road corridor between Western and Eastern Europe, and serving as evidence of a sound investment and a continuation of the use of natural gas in transport. A commentary and brief overview of the current state and challenges of the compressed natural gas (CNG) market in Croatia was provided by Nereo Milin from Energo Ltd. He presented an analysis of the potential of SPP filling stations in the future, particularly regarding the use of biomethane, which will be available in Croatia starting in 2026/2027 from local sources. Biomethane has its potential and market, especially in public urban transport, and can compete with other fuels produced from renewable sources and electric mobility. The analysis of the efficiency and energy potential of waste heat from a marine four-stroke engine was presented by Vladimir Pelić, PhD., from the Faculty of Maritime Studies, University of Rijeka. The efficiency of the energy system in a maritime vessel can be significantly improved by utilizing waste heat for heating and electricity generation. Improving overall energy efficiency results in lower fuel costs and fewer emissions into the environment. Sanjin Kuljanić from Jadrolinija spoke about the company’s strategy on environmental protection goals.
A panel discussion followed the introductory presentation, and was moderated by Davor Matić, MSc., while also including the following participants: Krešimir Marijanović from the company Brod-plin Ltd., Zoran Dojčinović from the Croatian Gas Association, Nereo Milin from Energo Ltd., Vladimir Pelić, PhD., from the Maritime Faculty of the University of Rijeka, and Sanjin Kuljanić from Jadrolinija. The panel discussion began with Davor Matić, MSc., providing a brief introduction and informing participants about the current state of gas in transport in the EU. Autogas (LPG) remains the largest and most widespread alternative fuel in the European Union, with over 20,000 filling stations, also holding a leading position in Croatia as well. The decarbonization of autogas is possible using bio-LPG and a mixture of dimethyl ether and LPG. In 2022, the German ADAC published a life cycle analysis showing that the lowest CO2 emissions, alongside electric vehicles powered by renewable energy sources, actually come from vehicles powered by biomethane. The panelists welcomed the project by INA-Industrija nafte d. d. and the expected launch of a biomethane facility in Sisak in 2026. Targeted use takes place primarily in transport and industry, using the Plinacro network. The expected production of biomethane (3,000 tons per year) could be almost entirely consumed by the existing fleet of natural gas buses in Croatia. According to the order book for new ships globally, leading up to 2027, LNG has a primary position compared to other alternative fuels. Jadrolinija has the task of aligning to strict European environmental protection directives. At the same time, the LNG terminal on the island of Krk offers the use of natural gas as a potential transitional fuel in the decarbonization phase. However, other environmentally friendly fuels are also under consideration.
Ferdo Barbarić, from the Ministry of Internal Affairs Forensic Science Centre “Ivan Vučetić”, spoke about the forensic examination of gas meters due to situations involving unauthorized gas consumption. Forensic examinations of gas meters highlight the importance of proper procedures in maintaining records when replacing gas meters, which can become crucial evidence in court proceedings. This approach ensures reliable records while reducing ambiguities or disputes. Stjepan Pavliša, from the company PA-EL Ltd., pointed out adherence to cathodic protection standards leading to safe gas systems and financial sustainability. In practice, there are many shortcomings in the process, from the design and construction to maintenance. The common participants in these processes do not receive adequate training and fail to adhere to cathodic protection standards. A financial analysis of the return on equity (ROE) in the Croatian gas distribution sector was presented by Janja Kulić, MSc., from the company Kulić – Kulić & Sperk Ltd. She provided an overview of the regulatory framework that defines the operating conditions for gas distributors and an analysis of the components within the tariff system, including calculating regulated profit and the impact of regulatory bodies, while highlighting the role of the Croatian Energy Regulatory Agency (HERA). The obligations assigned to the transmission system operator regarding the disclosure of public data in line with EU Regulation 2024/1789 were presented by Borna Borković from the company Plinacro Ltd., who also placed emphasis on the data relating to the composition of natural gas most impacted by the new Regulation 2024/1789.
In the poster section on issues stemming from gas and energy industries, the authors presented their posters and gave lectures on engaging topics, such as energy integration with renewable sources, challenges of natural gas prices in Europe and North Africa, the development of technology for extracting acid gases from natural gas, and increasing energy efficiency.
Numerous exhibitors from Croatia and abroad presented advanced technical solutions for the gas and energy industry at the gas equipment and technology exhibition, which was held during the conference.
The Jubilee 40th International Scientific & Expert Meeting Gas Professionals in Opatija facilitated the establishment of numerous business connections among a large number of gas and energy professionals, leading to new contracts and partnerships. All in all, it was a pleasant and cordial gathering in Opatija.
At the conclusion of the large three-day conference, the President of the Croatian Gas Association, Assoc. Prof. Dalibor Pudić, PhD., thanked to the high auspices, the main partner, sponsors, co-organizers, media sponsors, speakers, panelists, companies that leased exhibition space, media representatives, and all other participants for their support and contribution to the success of the event. He expressed the readiness of the organizers to accept new ideas and suggestions for improving the program and quality of the conference. He particularly emphasized the challenges confronting the gas sector in the decarbonization of natural gas during the transitional period, while highlighting the potential of natural gas in global energy for many more years to come.
The next 41st International Scientific & Expert Meeting Gas Professionals will be held from 6 to 8 May 2026, in Opatija.
Sljedeći 41. Međunarodni znanstveno-stručni susret stručnjaka za plin održat će se od 6. do 8. svibnja 2026. godine, u Opatiji.
