In 2024, electricity in North Macedonia is predominantly generated from fossil fuels, with more than half of the electricity consumption (approximately 58%) relying on fossil energy sources. Coal is a significant contributor within this category, making up about a third of the total energy mix. In terms of low-carbon energy sources, roughly 29% of North Macedonia's electricity comes from clean energy, with hydropower accounting for more than two-thirds of this share. Meanwhile, gas and net imports contribute nearly 20% and 13%, respectively. Although wind, solar, and biofuels combined make up a small fraction of the total energy mix, with solar merely contributing close to 5%, their presence marks a necessary step toward a more sustainable energy future.
Is Electricity Growing in North Macedonia?
However, electricity consumption in North Macedonia seems to be on a downward trend. As of 2024, the electricity consumption per capita stands at 3658 kWh, which is notably lower than the 2011 record of 4623 kWh per person, thus reflecting a decrease of almost 1000 kWh per person. This reduction is accompanied by a decline in low-carbon generation, which dropped to 1048 kWh per person in recent times from a high of 1217 kWh in 2023. Such declines should prompt critical discussions and planning, considering that the broader global move toward sustainability emphasizes an increase, not a decrease, in clean and efficient electricity generation.
Suggestions
North Macedonia has significant potential for expanding its low-carbon electricity generation by following the examples set by successful countries. For instance, nuclear power has been pivotal in countries like Slovakia and Ukraine, where it comprises over half of the electricity generation, bolstering their energy security and reducing carbon emissions. Similarly, solar energy can be expanded by drawing lessons from Greece, where solar provides more than a fifth of their electricity. The nation can leverage its local climate advantages to harness solar power potential effectively. By investing in nuclear and solar infrastructure, North Macedonia can secure a green energy future aligned with global clean energy trends.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in North Macedonia has seen varied shifts, predominantly in hydropower. During the 1990s and early 2000s, hydropower experienced both periods of growth and significant reductions, such as the notable increase of 1.2 TWh in 2010 and a subsequent decrease of 1 TWh in 2011. The fluctuations didn’t stabilize significantly into the 2010s, marking continuous adjustments until 2024. The recent inclusion of solar energy in 2023 signifies an encouraging turn towards more sustainable sources. However, hydropower's variable contribution historically highlights the need for diversification of electricity generation, emphasizing the incorporation of steady and scalable solutions like solar and nuclear energy to achieve a reliable and resilient electricity grid.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.