Pantheon AI obtained the key approval from Croatia’s transmission system operator HOPS to connect a 1 GW facility to the transmission grid, according to the data center project’s developer. For context, the total capacity of data centers in Europe is around 10 GW.
By accepting the study on the optimal technical connection solution (EOTRP), Croatia’s TSO HOPS confirmed the regulatory and technical feasibility of delivering electricity to the Pantheon AI project, the project’s representatives said, as local media reported.
They added that the process of signing the grid connection agreement has also been initiated, bringing the project into the final phase of securing the power supply.
Of note, in late April, within the framework of the Three Seas Initiative Business Forum in Dubrovnik, Croatian company Končar signed a letter of intent with US-based Pantheon Atlas LLC for the Pantheon Project – the Topusko AI Innovation and Development Centre.
The project includes the construction of 280 kilometres of transmission lines
Investments in the project are estimated at EUR 50 billion, Končar added.
Representatives of the Pantheon AI project now pointed out that the prerequisite for its implementation includes building energy and other infrastructure worth over EUR 500 million. It comprises 280 kilometers of new power transmission lines, a state-of-the-art 400 kV substation in Topusko, roads, and fiber optic infrastructure.
This infrastructure will be handed over to the government, the update reads.
These investments will also enable the grid connection of more than 5 GW of renewable energy power plants.
Gudelj: The project is unique as it brings together several key elements and stakeholders
Pantheon AI project lead Mario Gudelj stressed that the project is unique because it combines several key elements and participants, including Croatian expertise, American capital, and top-tier strategic partners such as the Končar and Greenvolt groups.
“Pantheon AI is bringing benefits on several levels for the development of the city of Topusko, as well as for Croatia, its power grid, and its investment attractiveness. The Ministry of Economy and Hrvatska elektroprivreda (HEP) are contributing to this through their ongoing activities and support,” Gudelj,” Gudelj pointed out.
Gudelj joined the project after leaving HOPS, where he spent a total of 21 years in two stints. He served as the TSO’s CEO and management board chairman.
Končar earlier said that construction of the data center is scheduled to begin in 2027, with operations expected to start in early 2029.
