Albania stands out as a remarkable example of clean electricity generation, as it currently derives 100% of its electricity from low-carbon sources. Hydropower is the dominant source, providing almost all of this clean electricity with 96.67% of the total share, while solar energy contributes a small but meaningful 3.33%. This dedication to low-carbon electricity enables Albania to not only meet its domestic energy needs sustainably but also to act as a significant net exporter of electricity. By exporting green electricity to neighboring regions, Albania plays a crucial role in reducing emissions beyond its borders. The next challenge for the country is to further expand the use of electricity in sectors like transport, heating, and industry, which would require increasing its clean electricity supply even further.
Is Electricity Growing in Albania?
There is a positive trend in electricity consumption in Albania, albeit modest. In 2023, electricity consumption reached 3205 kWh per person, which is a slight increase from the previous peak recorded in 2013 at 3192 kWh per person, marking a change of 13 kWh per person. Simultaneously, the generation of low-carbon electricity has seen a more pronounced increase; it reached 3205 kWh per person in 2023, up from the earlier record of 3137 kWh per person in 2021, reflecting a rise of 67 kWh per person. While these increments are encouraging, it highlights the need for further accelerated growth in electricity supply to support future electrification goals.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Albania can consider expanding its solar capabilities and possibly explore the inclusion of nuclear energy into its energy mix. The country enjoys abundant sunshine, which creates an opportunity to significantly increase solar electricity generation. Moreover, investing in nuclear energy can provide a reliable and large-scale generation capacity to complement hydropower and solar. This diversification is essential to ensure Albania can meet the growing electricity demand required for electrifying other sectors, while minimizing dependence on variable hydropower resources due to climate or seasonal changes.
History
Looking back at Albania’s historical journey in low-carbon electricity, we see a mixture of progress and setbacks. The 1990s saw some fluctuations, with notable gains recorded in 1996. The early 2000s experienced some challenges, particularly around 2000 and 2001, but the situation improved in the following years. Significant growth was seen from 2009 through 2010, and again in 2013, 2016, and 2018, when the country recorded substantial increases in hydropower generation. While there have been instances of decline, as seen in 2007, 2011, and 2019, the most recent figures indicate a resurgence, with a substantial increase in 2021, followed by positive growth in 2023. Despite facing variability in its hydropower output, Albania remains committed to its path of clean electricity generation, reflecting its resilience and intent to adapt and grow.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.