Zeljko Kolar

Country: Croatia

Nominated by: Velimir Šegon (Deputy Managing Director, REGEA)

Summary of Nominee’s Contributions

Željko Kolar, County Prefect of Krapina-Zagorje County, has been a driving force in Croatia’s sustainable energy transition, leading renewable energy, efficiency, and regional development. He pioneered solar Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) in public healthcare, installing 450 kW at Zabok Hospital and 118 kW at Krapinske Toplice, reducing costs and emissions. Expanding this success, he launched a county-wide PPA tender to scale solar adoption. Through the EIB/PBZ loan program, he retrofitted 11 schools, cutting energy use and improving learning conditions.

Under his leadership, Bračak Castle became a near-zero-energy innovation hub, and he co-founded REGEA, a leading regional energy agency. His projects include ELENA NEWLIGHT, upgrading public lighting, and “I Can Have Solar Collectors Too”, boosting residential solar adoption. Recognised with the Energy Globe Award and European Entrepreneurial Region 2025 title, Kolar’s leadership continues to advance sustainable energy and climate policy.

Creativity and strategic vision

Željko Kolar has demonstrated innovative thinking in advancing sustainable energy and climate action. He introduced PPAs in public healthcare, a first in Croatia, overcoming financial and regulatory barriers to install solar at hospitals. Building on this, he launched a county-wide PPA tender to expand renewables across institutions.

Through an EIB/PBZ loan, he retrofitted 11 schools, modernising infrastructure and improving efficiency. He also co-founded REGEA, a key driver of EU-funded energy projects. His transformation of Bračak Castle into a knowledge hub merged heritage preservation with sustainability.He secured funding for ELENA NEWLIGHT, replacing outdated street lighting with LEDs, reducing energy use and improving safety. His vision extends to green entrepreneurship and sustainable tourism, securing the European Entrepreneurial Region 2025 title. His residential solar initiative has empowered households to adopt renewables, fostering grassroots climate action.

By combining innovative financing, pioneering projects, and long-term planning, Kolar has reshaped Krapina-Zagorje County’s energy landscape, making him a trailblazer in regional energy transition.

Impact

Kolar’s leadership has positioned Krapina-Zagorje County as a model for sustainable development. His solar PV projects generate 0.57 GWh of renewable electricity annually, cutting CO₂ emissions and public sector energy costs. Plans for a 780 kW solar carport at Zabok Hospital will further expand capacity, while a county-wide PPA tender ensures long-term solar adoption.

Beyond energy, Kolar secured HRK 15.2 billion (€2 billion) for regional development, funding energy-efficient retrofits, sustainable transport, and green business initiatives. This has boosted job creation, with businesses generating €2.1 billion in 2021 (+19.6%) and exports rising 38.8% to €677 million.

His citizen-driven initiatives have empowered 5,000+ people to access renewable energy. As a co-founder of REGEA, he has helped municipalities and businesses secure EU funding for energy projects. Bračak Energy Centre, transformed from a historic castle into a near-zero-energy hub, has hosted 180+ events and 4,000 visitors, reinforcing the county’s role as a regional leader in sustainable energy.

Kolar’s influence extends beyond Croatia, shaping national policies and EU projects. As a European Entrepreneurial Region 2025 winner, and with Financial Times recognition as a top investment destination, his leadership has gained international acclaim.

Leadership

Kolar mobilises citizens, businesses, and public institutions to make sustainability a collective effort. His “I Can Have Solar Collectors Too” initiative has helped households access renewables through financial and technical support. Through the county’s Business Center and Development Agency (ZARA), he promotes green entrepreneurship, strengthening the regional economy while reducing carbon emissions.

Under his leadership, hospitals, schools, and government buildings have transitioned to solar energy, setting an example for the public sector. Through REGEA, he has expanded training, workshops, and advisory services, equipping municipalities and businesses with the skills to implement sustainable energy projects.

Beyond Croatia, Kolar has built international partnerships through EU-funded projects, bringing European expertise into local initiatives. By making sustainability practical, inclusive, and action-driven, he has inspired thousands to engage in the green transition, demonstrating exceptional leadership in climate action and energy transformation.