In Bosnia & Herzegovina, the current state of electricity consumption over the past year, from July 2025 to June 2026, shows a noticeable reliance on both fossil and low-carbon energy sources. Fossil fuels contribute significantly, with coal accounting for more than half of the electricity generated at around 53%. Meanwhile, low-carbon energy sources make up nearly 47% of total electricity consumption. Within this low-carbon category, hydropower plays a crucial role, providing almost 38% of the electricity. Additionally, wind and solar power contribute to this green portfolio, with wind energy comprising just over 5% and solar accounting for nearly 4%. This balanced yet still coal-heavy energy mix reflects both the strides made in adopting cleaner energy and the significant path that remains towards reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Is Electricity Growing in Bosnia & Herzegovina?

Currently, electricity consumption in Bosnia & Herzegovina is experiencing a decline, which raises concerns. The latest figures from 2026 indicate a total electricity consumption of about 4454 kWh per person, a notable decrease from the 2018 peak of 5657 kWh per person. This indicates a drop of over 1200 kWh per person. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation has seen a reduction of 108 kWh per person from its 2023 record high. This stagnating trend in both total and low-carbon electricity generation underscores the urgent need for strategies to invigorate growth, ensuring that future demands for clean electricity, driven by electrification and technological advancements, are met.

Suggestions

For Bosnia & Herzegovina to increase its low-carbon electricity generation, a strategic focus on expanding solar and nuclear energy is essential. Drawing lessons from regions like France and Slovakia, which generate over 60% of their electricity from nuclear power, adopting nuclear energy could significantly boost clean energy capacity. Simultaneously, countries such as Nevada and California illustrate the potential of solar power, producing over 30% of their electricity from the sun. By investing in these proven clean energy technologies, Bosnia & Herzegovina could reduce its dependency on coal, significantly cutting emissions and moving towards more sustainable electricity generation. This dual approach offers a robust path towards securing a greener energy future.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in Bosnia & Herzegovina, primarily focused on hydropower, reflects a series of peaks and troughs over the decades. In the early 1990s, hydropower saw growth followed by a sharp decline, while the late 1990s and early 2000s experienced modest rebounds. The period from 2010 to 2013 saw significant variances, including a pivotal 3 TWh increase in 2013. However, fluctuations persisted, with 2014 and 2017 marked by declines, before a noteworthy recovery in 2018. The most recent years signal a continuing cycle of variability, showcasing the need for a more stable and diversified approach to low-carbon electricity. Expanding into nuclear and solar could provide the consistency and growth necessary to support the region's clean energy objectives.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Jul 2025 – Jun 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.