Croatia implements 20 percent firewood discount to offset rising heating costs

The Croatian government has implemented a measure to assist households using firewood for heating. Through Croatian Forests, citizens can receive a total discount of 20 percent on firewood prices. This relief consists of a previously approved 5 percent discount combined with an additional 15 percent discount introduced by the government in March to mitigate rising heating costs. The measure is expected to cover approximately 60,000 households and involves 450,000 cubic meters of firewood, with an estimated total value of five million euros. The discount is valid until April 1, 2027. Recipients of guaranteed minimum benefits are given priority in the supply process.

Despite these subsidies, rising energy costs continue to influence consumer behavior. Reports indicate that pellet prices have increased by 30 to 40 percent compared to last year, and firewood prices remain high, often exceeding 60 euros per cubic meter. Consequently, some households are transitioning away from traditional wood and pellet heating toward more cost-effective alternatives, such as heat pumps and solar energy, to achieve long-term savings.