Green Industrial Zones and Ports: A 100% Renewable Energy Transition Model

Energy industrial zones can act as a transformative model for industrial decarbonization by integrating renewable energy infrastructure directly with industrial production. By combining energy industrial zones with the energy community framework and peer-to-peer (P2P) energy trading, this study proposes a pathway toward 100% renewable energy sources. The model was tested using a techno-economic assessment applied to the Bravar-Jasenice case study in Croatia featuring 12 MW of solar PV, 10 MW of wind power, and a 9.3 MW biogas cogeneration plant. This integrated approach can achieve 80–90% energy self-sufficiency and reduce electricity expenditures for participating enterprises by approximately 15%. Furthermore, the system facilitates an annual reduction of roughly 20,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions, thus directly supporting European Green Deal objectives. The study also highlights the potential for industrial symbiosis, including green hydrogen production, data centre integration, and waste heat recovery. Ultimately, the proposed framework provides a robust strategy for enhancing industrial competitiveness and ensuring energy security through localized, sustainable energy management.