Croatia's electricity consumption over the past year, from September 2025 to August 2026, reveals an important balance between low-carbon and fossil energy sources. Low-carbon electricity, which includes hydropower, wind, solar, and biofuels, makes up more than half of the country's total consumption, at approximately 59%. Hydropower is the largest contributor within this group, covering close to one-third of the share, while wind adds a significant 15%. Solar and biofuels, though a smaller portion, still contribute important components at about 9% and 5%, respectively. Fossil fuels, including gas and coal, account for nearly 19% of electricity consumption. Additionally, net imports represent a considerable component, contributing to about 22% of the power mix, emphasizing Croatia's dependence on external electricity sources to meet its demand.

Is Electricity Growing in Croatia?

Turning to the trends in electricity growth, there is a concerning indication that Croatia's electricity consumption is declining. In the latest analysis, electricity consumption per person stands at 4,790 kWh, which represents a decrease of 313 kWh from the record level set in 2025. In terms of low-carbon electricity, the per-person consumption is at 2,833 kWh, witnessing a drop of 287 kWh from the highest level recorded in 2023. These decreases are troubling and highlight the pressing need for Croatia to ramp up its efforts in expanding its low-carbon electricity generation to meet future demands.

Suggestions

To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Croatia should prioritize expanding its wind energy capacity, tapping into an existing substantial share of 16%. Additionally, looking at successful regions can provide inspiration. Denmark and Iowa lead the way with towering wind energy generation, reaching nearly 57%. Croatia could emulate such success by enhancing policies and investments in wind infrastructure. Furthermore, expanding solar energy is crucial, as shown by states like Nevada, which meets 35% of electricity needs through solar. To establish a more sustainable and independent energy future, Croatia might also consider developing nuclear power, taking cues from nuclear leaders like France, Slovakia, and neighboring Slovenia, which are generating significant shares of their electricity from nuclear energy.

History

Reflecting on Croatia's low-carbon electricity history, hydropower has experienced multiple fluctuations over the decades. In the early 1990s and 2000s, hydro saw both notable increases and disappointing declines. The late 2010s marked a period of renewed gains and some setbacks, with years like 2013 witnessing impressive growth by 3.7 TWh. Unfortunately, recent years have showcased more declines, underlining the need for resilient and diversified clean energy strategies that could potentially involve nuclear and solar expansions. This historical context emphasizes the critical need for strategic planning to foster a more stable and growing low-carbon electricity infrastructure in Croatia.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

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