In 2025, Croatia's electricity consumption primarily relies on low-carbon sources, with more than half of its electricity (approximately 56%) coming from such sources. Hydropower contributes almost a third of the total electricity, while wind and biofuels add significant portions at around 16% and 5% respectively. Fossil fuels, although still a part of the energy mix, make up a significantly smaller portion, with gas and coal accounting for less than 16% combined. The country also relies on imports for about 29% of its electricity, highlighting a dependence on external sources. Overall, while there is a meaningful presence of low-carbon electricity, Croatia continues to rely on fossil fuels and imports, underscoring the need for further expansion of sustainable, home-grown low-carbon energy sources.
Data sources used on this page include ENTSOE and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Croatia?
Electricity consumption in Croatia is experiencing growth, with the latest figures showing an increase to 5,238 kWh per person - up by 68 kWh from the previous record set in 2024. However, there is a worrisome decline in low-carbon electricity generation, dropping by 209 kWh per person compared to the peak in 2023. This inconsistency dampens the overall progress toward low-carbon energy reliance and highlights an urgent need for Croatia to balance and enhance its low-carbon sources alongside its growing electricity demand. The country's primary aim should be to bolster clean electricity production to keep pace with technological advancements and electrification trends.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Croatia should focus on expanding existing wind infrastructure, which already plays a significant role in its energy mix. Croatia can also learn from regions like Denmark and Iowa, where wind accounts for around 60% and 58% of electricity generation, respectively. Moreover, countries such as France and Slovakia demonstrate high integration of nuclear energy, around 67% and 66%, showcasing the potential of this clean, reliable energy source. These examples illustrate how expanding both wind and nuclear energy could significantly enhance Croatia's low-carbon electricity capacity. Solar energy, being underrepresented compared to its potential, should also be a focal point for development to create a resilient and diverse low-carbon electricity portfolio.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Croatia, particularly hydroelectric power, has seen various fluctuations over the years. During the 1990s, hydroelectricity witnessed periods of growth, peaking in 1996 with an increase of 2.2 TWh, but following years saw declines, notably a drop of 2 TWh in 1997. The early 2000s experienced further variability, and significant decreases in some years like 2007 (a decline of 1.9 TWh) reflect challenges in maintaining stable hydroelectric production. Recent data from 2023 shows an uptick of 2.7 TWh, though subsequent declines in 2024 and 2025 underscore the ongoing instability. These patterns suggest an urgent need for Croatia to stabilize and expand its low-carbon electricity generation, looking toward other clean sources like solar and nuclear to offset hydropower fluctuations and ensure reliable, sustainable energy for the future.
