ELECTRO-ENERGETICAL HISTORY OF THE LIKA REGION – EVELOPMENT OR DEVASTATION OF THE DINARIC KARST

The Dinaric karst area is one of the most geographically and geomorphologically dynamic and typical regions in Croatia, a region with a long history of exploitation and valorization of natural resources. Abundant and significant water resources have represented an important potential for new forms of electrical energy production since the end of the 19th century. Therefore, the Lika region is a clear example of long-term investment in hydropower and the use of other resources with a significant environmental footprint. Large capital investments such as the construction of the Hydropower plant system Senj and the Pumped-storage hydropower plant Velebit have gained economic and energy significance for the entire area, with a significant impact on the karst environment. Large municipal and energy investments in the area of central and southern Lika in the form of construction of hydropower and transportation infrastructure have resulted in changed livelihood opportunities for the local population and altered ecosystems along Velebit.