Vidukin Gaj solar power plant the largest solar project in Dalmatia

On the hillsides near Split, in the heart of Dalmatia, one of the largest solar projects in the region has been completed – the Vidukin Gaj solar power plant (25 MWp). The project represents a strategic step forward for Croatia in expanding renewable energy capacity and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Construction began in October 2023 and was completed in 2024. The location, positioned on inaccessible karst terrain, posed numerous engineering challenges. However, this very landscape highlights Dalmatia’s significant potential for large-scale solar development.

• Installed capacity: 25 MWp
• AC output power: 19.9 MW
• Number of solar panels: 44,512
• Total site area: 24.8 ha
• Annual production: 27.4 GWh
• Transformer substations: 4 (two 6.6 MVA 35/0.8 kV and two 3.3 MVA 35/0.8 kV)

• Inaccessible karst terrain requiring complex foundation engineering.
• Drilling over 23,330 foundation holes for the supporting structure, each preceded by site-specific static assessments.
• Coordination of more than 50 workers on-site across different project phases.
• Optimization of panel inclination to ensure year-round energy efficiency.
• Installation and integration of transformer substations to ensure efficient grid connection.

Elnos Group served as the key contractor, responsible for:

• Drilling and stabilizing foundations for panel support structures
• Installation of mounting posts and solar panels
• Laying and connecting MV, LV and DC cables
• Testing and commissioning of the solar power plant
• Installing four transformer substations enabling stable energy delivery to the grid

• Increasing Croatia’s solar energy capacity and strengthening national energy independence
• Reducing CO₂ emissions and contributing to EU clean energy targets
• Opening the path for additional solar development in Dalmatia, a region with exceptional solar potential
• Modernizing Croatia’s power system through more stable and efficient use of renewable resources

The Vidukin Gaj solar power plant stands as one of the most significant solar projects in the region, setting new standards for renewable energy deployment in Dalmatia. Beyond its contribution to the energy transition, it supports long-term stability of Croatia’s electric power system