In 2024, Bulgaria's electricity consumption presents a favorable landscape, especially concerning low-carbon energy sources. More than 70% of its electricity is generated from low-carbon sources, which is quite impressive. Breaking it down, nuclear power holds the largest share at almost 42%, making it the backbone of the clean energy portfolio. Solar energy accounts for around 14%, showcasing Bulgaria's commitment to harnessing sunlight for power. Hydropower also contributes a modest share of nearly 8%, while wind energy provides close to 4%. Biofuels, despite having a minimal role at just under 5%, are still part of the low-carbon mix. On the other hand, fossil energy represents a smaller portion, with 27% derived from coal and a little over 4% from natural gas. This balanced composition emphasizes Bulgaria's significant strides toward reducing its carbon footprint.
Is Electricity Growing in Bulgaria?
However, the overall electricity consumption in Bulgaria reveals a concerning trend. In 2024, the total electricity usage was 5,508 kWh per person, which marks a significant decline from the 2022 peak of 7,366 kWh per person, a reduction of 1,858 kWh. Despite a decline in overall consumption, there is a silver lining: low-carbon electricity generation reached 4,014 kWh per person, surpassing the 2021 record of 3,897 kWh per person by 117 kWh. Clearly, Bulgaria is advancing in generating more clean electricity, which is promising for future sustainable development. However, the downturn in total electricity consumption suggests a potential economic slowdown or shifts in energy efficiency and demands that need to be addressed to ensure a robust energy economy.
Suggestions
To further boost low-carbon electricity generation, Bulgaria should expand its existing nuclear and solar energy capacities, given their significant contributions already recorded. Learning from countries proficient in low-carbon energy integration, Bulgaria can draw inspiration from France's extensive use of nuclear power, generating 68% of its electricity this way. This sets a benchmark for Bulgaria to aim for greater nuclear energy production. Additionally, Bulgaria can also take cues from states like Nevada with its successful solar power generation at 27%. Collaborating with these regions and adapting similar strategies will accelerate Bulgaria's transition toward a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
History
Bulgaria's history of low-carbon electricity generation has seen fluctuations, particularly within its nuclear sector. The late 20th century marked substantial additions to the nuclear capacity with several increases, notably in 1981, 1983, and 1988, adding significant output. However, the early 1990s saw notable declines in nuclear electricity generation, signaling a period of downturn. This trend continued with reductions in 2003 and 2007, yet subsequent years brought efforts to rebound such as the increase in 2014. The hydropower sector also went through cycles of fluctuation, with incremental growth and some declines. Notably, 2024 heralded a positive development with a robust 1.8 TWh increase in solar generation, shining a ray of optimism for Bulgaria's clean energy strategy. These historical insights underscore the potential for Bulgaria to safeguard and intensify its investments in nuclear and solar technology.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.