In North Macedonia, the electricity mix for the year 2025 shows a substantial reliance on fossil sources with coal and gas contributing to more than a third of the electricity generated. Coal accounts for nearly a quarter of the total, making it a significant source of pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Low-carbon or clean energy sources make up almost a third of the total electricity, with hydropower being the most significant contributor. Hydropower accounts for over half of the low-carbon share, while solar and wind together constitute a little more than a tenth of total generation. The remaining electricity need in North Macedonia is met through net imports, which make up roughly another third of the electricity consumption.
Data sources used on this page include ENTSOE and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in North Macedonia?
Analyzing the current electricity consumption trends in North Macedonia reveals a concerning stagnation in overall usage coupled with slight improvement in low-carbon generation. The electricity consumption, at 4195 kWh per person in 2025, has decreased by almost 10% from its 2011 peak of 4624 kWh per person. However, there’s a silver lining in the realm of clean energy. Low-carbon electricity production has slightly climbed from 1196 kWh per person in 2023 to 1261 kWh per person in 2025, indicating modest progress in sustainable electricity sourcing. While this upward trend in low-carbon electricity generation is positive, the overall decline in electricity consumption could pose challenges in meeting both domestic demand and climate commitments.
Suggestions
To improve its low-carbon electricity generation, North Macedonia can look toward successful regions that have harnessed solar and nuclear energy effectively. For instance, countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear power provides a dominant share of electricity, present a strong case for expanding nuclear capabilities in North Macedonia. Solar energy has also seen significant development in many regions, such as Nevada in the United States and Cyprus, demonstrating its viability and potential to support clean energy transitions. By leveraging insights from these regions, North Macedonia can enhance its clean electricity portfolio through strategic investments in solar and nuclear infrastructure, reducing dependency on fossil fuels and consequently mitigating environmental impacts.
History
Looking back, North Macedonia's journey with low-carbon electricity, particularly hydropower, has been marked by fluctuations. In the early 1990s, slight rises in hydropower generation were noted alongside occasional downturns. The early 2000s through to the 2010s exhibited similar trends, with some years seeing significant increases like the 1.2 TWh boost in 2010, contrasted by notable declines such as the 1 TWh drop in 2011. Recent years have shown more consistent efforts, especially with the incorporation of solar energy. For instance, 2023 marked a positive step with a 0.3 TWh rise in solar generation, followed by concurrent hydropower contribution. This evolution underscores the importance of a diversified and resilient strategy for low-carbon electricity expansion in North Macedonia.
