Croatia energy infrastructure development protests

Residents in the Trilj region of Croatia have organized protests against large-scale energy infrastructure projects. Initial opposition focused on the Brda–Umovi wind farm project in Budimiri, where locals expressed concern over land easements for access roads, cable networks, and power lines affecting private plots held for generations.

Protesters in Budimiri specifically highlighted the potential impact on cultural and archaeological heritage, calling for assessments of medieval tombstones, known as ‘stećci’, located near the planned sites. As the movement expanded to include areas across Cetina, Imotski, and Omiš, residents demanded greater transparency from local and national authorities. They are seeking a unified map detailing the exact location of wind farms, solar plants, and high-voltage lines.

In late August 2026, protesters intensified demands for clarity regarding the total number of planned projects, including substations, and sought identification of investors and contractors involved in reported road construction near the Biorine settlement.

A demonstration is scheduled for September 4, 2026, in front of the City of Trilj building. The movement has faced political friction; local resident Jure Ivančević challenged Mayor Ivan Bugarin’s claims that the protests are politically motivated by the SDP. Ivančević asserted that the movement is not a matter of left-wing or right-wing politics, but rather a ‘defense of the land, water, nature, and the future of the local community.’ Residents continue to demand public documentation regarding approved projects and planned infrastructure routes to understand the impact on local villages and daily life.