Electricity in Albania in 2023
Albania stands out as a leader in low-carbon electricity generation, with the country achieving the remarkable feat of sourcing 100% of its electricity from clean energy. Almost all of this comes from hydropower, which accounts for more than 95% of Albania's electricity. Solar energy, making up around 3% of its electricity generation, complements this hydropower base. Furthermore, Albania plays a vital role in aiding its neighboring countries to lower their emissions by being a significant net exporter of electricity. As global efforts to combat climate change intensify, Albania's next challenge is to further increase its electricity generation in order to electrify other sectors such as transport, heating, and industry, which will require significantly more electricity and continued investment in clean energy.
Suggestions
To increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Albania can consider diversifying and expanding its energy portfolio by investing more in solar power and introducing wind and nuclear energy into its mix. Leveraging its abundant sunshine, Albania could boost solar energy installations to generate a larger share of its electricity demand. Similarly, harnessing wind energy, particularly in the coastal and elevated regions, could add a new dimension to Albania's clean energy capabilities. Moreover, the introduction of nuclear energy could provide a steady and reliable power output resistant to weather variability, helping to complement the seasonal nature of hydropower and solar energy.
History
Looking back on the history of Albania's low-carbon electricity sector, hydropower has been a cornerstone of Albania's energy landscape over the decades. Starting from the early 1990s, Albania experienced fluctuations in hydropower generation, with notable dips and peaks. In the mid-1990s, there was an increase in hydropower, followed by a pattern of gains and losses throughout the 2000s. In the last decade, hydropower experienced significant fluctuations with large increases, such as the substantial rise in 2018, followed by notable declines. The recent increase in 2021 and 2023 highlights ongoing growth, signaling an upward trend in Albania's hydropower sector. These fluctuations emphasize the need to stabilize electricity generation through a diversified clean energy approach, paving the way for a sustainable and resilient energy future.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.