In Bosnia & Herzegovina in 2024, over half of the electricity consumed is sourced from fossil fuels, specifically coal, which accounts for around 61% of the total electricity generation. On the other hand, low-carbon sources make up about 39% of the electricity mix, with hydropower contributing the lion's share at nearly 35%, while wind and solar provide approximately 3% and 2%, respectively. It's clear that while there is a substantial reliance on coal-fired power generation, a significant portion still comes from clean sources, primarily hydropower, which helps to diversify the energy portfolio and reduce carbon emissions.
Data sources used on this page include ENTSOE, Eurostat and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
However, electricity consumption has been declining in Bosnia & Herzegovina. The latest consumption figures are 4,484 kWh per person, which marks a notable decrease from the 2018 high of 5,657 kWh per person, a difference of 1,173 kWh. Additionally, the generation of low-carbon electricity has also seen a downturn; the current rate is 1,764 kWh per person, down by 422 kWh from the 2023 peak. This reduction is concerning as it indicates not just a decline in overall electricity consumption but also in the generation of clean electricity, which is essential for reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Bosnia & Herzegovina should draw inspiration from regions that have successfully expanded their clean energy capacity. In particular, the country could look at Slovakia, where nuclear power accounts for a staggering 66% of electricity or consider the advancements made by Denmark and Iowa, with wind energy constituting around 58% and 60% of their electricity, respectively. Investing in solar energy as seen in Nevada, where it plays a significant role in the energy mix, can also be a viable strategy. By taking strategic steps to adopt and expand upon solar, wind, and nuclear power projects, Bosnia & Herzegovina could enhance its electricity infrastructure, boost its clean energy production, and play a pivotal role in the global shift toward sustainable energy sources.
History
Historically, Bosnia & Herzegovina's low-carbon electricity generation has relied heavily on hydropower, experiencing significant fluctuations over the decades. Beginning in 1991, there was a considerable increase in hydropower generation, followed by notable declines in 1992 and 1993. The latter part of the 1990s saw a resurgence in hydropower production, particularly in 1996 and 1999. During the 2000s, generation varied, with fluctuations continuing into the 2010s as well. Notably, 2013 saw the largest increase in the decade, but the subsequent years were marked by inconsistent production, with a significant drop recorded in 2017. Despite some growth in the early 2020s, recent years, particularly 2022 and 2024, have been characterized by reduced hydropower output, underscoring the need for a more diverse and robust low-carbon electricity strategy.
