Currently, North Macedonia's electricity consumption heavily relies on fossil fuels, which make up more than half of the country's electricity generation. Coal, a major component of this category, accounts for about 37%, with gas contributing nearly a fifth. In contrast, low-carbon energy sources like hydropower, solar, and wind provide roughly 29% of the electricity, with hydropower being the most significant contributor at about 20%. Solar and wind energy generate nearly 8% combined, showing some progress but still indicating a need for improvement. The country also relies on net imports for around 13% of its electricity, further highlighting the need for domestic improvements in low-carbon electricity generation.
Is Electricity Growing in North Macedonia?
Electricity consumption in North Macedonia appears to be on a decline when compared to past records. In 2024, electricity consumption was 3,703 kWh per person, which is a decrease of 921 kWh per person from the peak in 2011. This downward trend is concerning, especially when considering the environmental and economic benefits of increasing electricity, particularly low-carbon electricity generation. In addition, the production of low-carbon electricity has also dropped, with the 2024 figure of 1,061 kWh per person falling by 156 compared to its previous high in 2023. These declines suggest a worrying turn away from clean energy advancements, which should be addressed promptly for a sustainable future.
Suggestions
North Macedonia has an opportunity to enhance its low-carbon electricity generation by investing in solar and nuclear energy, following the example set by various regions around the world. Countries like France and Slovakia have maintained significant portions of their electricity generation from nuclear power, with nuclear making up over 60% of their electricity. On the solar front, Lebanon’s remarkable achievement of generating more than 30% of its electricity from solar energy serves as a guiding example. Taking lessons from such successful regions, North Macedonia should consider strategic investments in both nuclear and solar energy to ensure sustainable and reliable electricity for its future.
History
Historically, North Macedonia has experienced fluctuations in its low-carbon electricity production, mainly influenced by hydroelectric power variability. In the early 1990s, the country saw moderate gains and losses in hydroelectric output, with noticeable increases such as in 1991 and significant declines like that of 1993. The early 2000s followed a similar pattern, but it wasn't until 2010 that a notable increase of 1.2 TWh in hydroelectric generation occurred. However, the following years saw more declines than gains, with a key loss in 2011. More recently, solar energy made an entrance in 2023 with a small increase, which is a promising direction. These historical trends emphasize the need for a more diversified and stable approach to low-carbon electricity generation, particularly through investments in solar and nuclear energy.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.