Over the past year, November 2024 to October 2025, Greece's electricity consumption has been characterized by a relatively balanced mix between fossil fuels and low-carbon sources. Fossil fuels account for just over half of the electricity consumption, with gas leading at approximately 42%. Coal and oil contribute modestly at around 5% each. On the other hand, low-carbon or clean energy sources make up slightly less than half of the nation's electricity, with solar and wind each contributing about 21%, while hydropower adds around 5%. This indicates a significant reliance on both fossil and clean energy, highlighting the nation's ongoing energy transition efforts.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Greece?
Despite these efforts, the electricity consumption per person in Greece is not currently at a peak. The most recent figures show an average annual consumption of 5363 kWh per person, which is notably lower than the historic high of 6261 kWh per person in 2008, representing a reduction of 898 kWh per person. Similarly, the low-carbon or clean electricity generation has also seen a slight decrease, with the latest figures at 2539 kWh per person, compared to the previous record of 2582 kWh per person set in 2024. This decline in consumption and low-carbon generation could be a cause for concern, particularly as the demand for sustainable energy solutions becomes more pressing in the face of climate change challenges.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Greece has the potential to expand its already notable wind and solar capacities. Learning from successful regions, Greece could explore the expansion of nuclear energy, in addition to its solar and wind initiatives. France, Slovakia, and Ukraine, for example, rely heavily on nuclear power to fulfill their electricity needs, indicating the feasibility of such a strategy in Greece. Moreover, boosting solar power generation could also be informed by Lebanon's impressive solar contributions, where solar accounts for 31% of their electricity. By drawing on these examples, Greece can work towards a more sustainable electricity grid, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting emissions more effectively in the future.
History
In looking at the history of Greece's low-carbon electricity generation, there have been notable fluctuations, particularly in the hydropower sector. In the early 1980s and continuing into the 2000s, Greece experienced several downturns in hydroelectric output, such as significant declines in 1983, 2001, and 2011. However, the country saw positive developments by introducing and expanding solar and wind power in the more recent years. For instance, since 2013, solar power has grown consistently, with notable increases between 2013 and 2024. Wind power also saw a boost in 2020. While these expansions are promising, the past challenges with hydropower underscore the importance of diversifying Greece's low-carbon energy portfolio. Expanding solar and exploring nuclear energy could build a stable and more sustainable electricity future.
