Electricity in Bosnia & Herzegovina in 2024

Currently, the electricity consumption in Bosnia & Herzegovina is predominantly reliant on fossil energy, with coal contributing almost 65% to the overall electricity generation. This significant reliance on coal suggests a high carbon footprint, which contributes to climate change and air pollution concerns. On the brighter side, low-carbon energy sources account for more than a third of the electricity mix, primarily driven by hydropower, which contributes approximately 34%. Wind energy plays a minor role, providing just over 1% of the total electricity. Despite the presence of low-carbon technologies, there remains substantial room for growth in diversifying and increasing the share of clean electricity generation to minimize environmental impact.

Suggestions

To strengthen low-carbon electricity generation, Bosnia & Herzegovina could consider expanding its use of nuclear power, taking inspiration from countries with successful nuclear programs. For instance, Slovenia, a neighboring country, effectively produces 34% of its electricity from nuclear power. Slovakia and Ukraine also demonstrate successful models, generating 60% and 55% from nuclear energy, respectively. Additionally, investing in wind power could be advantageous, drawing lessons from Denmark and Lithuania, where wind contributes significantly to their electricity mix at 59% and 34%, respectively. Enhancing solar energy could further diversify the low-carbon energy portfolio, as seen in countries like Greece and Chile, where solar energy contributes over 20% to electricity generation.

History

Historically, Bosnia & Herzegovina has experienced fluctuations in low-carbon electricity generation, largely attributed to changes in hydropower production. The 1990s saw a fluctuating pattern with gains in early and late years, with notable declines during 1992 and 1993. The early 2000s were characterized by modest increases, but 2007 and 2011 saw significant downturns in hydropower generation. Recent years have continued this trend of variability, with major increases in 2013 and 2018, followed by declines in 2020 and 2024. This historical context highlights the need for more stable and consistent investments in low-carbon technologies like nuclear and wind, to ensure a dependable and sustainable electricity future for the country.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Maximum Imports

Data Sources