In 2025, North Macedonia's electricity consumption relies heavily on fossil fuels, contributing to about 48% of the total electricity generation. This includes coal, which constitutes almost a third, and gas, adding roughly 16%. These significant fossil fuel contributions underscore a pressing challenge linked to climate change and air pollution. Meanwhile, net imports account for more than a third of the electricity consumption, at around 38%. In contrast, the low-carbon electricity generation represents a smaller portion, with roughly 14% of the total electricity coming from clean sources. Hydropower leads this segment with over 12%, while wind energy contributes slightly over 1%.

Data sources used on this page include ENTSOE and IEA. More about data sources →

Is Electricity Growing in North Macedonia?

The current trend shows a decline in electricity consumption in North Macedonia, with the 2025 figure standing at 3658 kWh per person, which is nearly 1000 kWh less than the 2011 record. This decrease is a concern as it may indicate challenges in meeting demand and supporting economic growth through electrification, vital for modern development and AI applications. Equally worrying is the drop in low-carbon electricity, now 513 kWh per person, down from the 2023 peak of 1196 kWh per person. These reductions highlight the urgent need for strategies to boost both overall and clean electricity generation to support sustainable development.

Suggestions

To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, North Macedonia can look towards successful regions for inspiration. Embracing a combination of nuclear and solar power could offer substantial benefits. For instance, France leads with a 70% nuclear share, while Nevada effectively harness solar energy for 33% of its electricity. Regions like Denmark and Iowa, generating over 50% of their electricity from wind power, demonstrate the potential of advancing wind energy. By investing in nuclear and solar infrastructure and expanding wind capacity, North Macedonia can significantly increase its clean electricity share, reduce reliance on imports and fossils, and mitigate environmental impacts.

History

Historically, hydropower has been the primary source of low-carbon electricity in North Macedonia, experiencing significant variability over the years. The early 1990s saw fluctuations, with minor growth and reductions. The late 2000s and early 2010s were marked by more pronounced shifts, highlighted by sizeable declines in 2007 and 2011 but rebounding in some subsequent years. Although solar energy's inclusion in 2023 was a positive development, the overall generation from low-carbon sources has faced inconsistency. To establish a stable and growing low-carbon sector, it is crucial to diversify sources beyond hydropower, emphasizing nuclear and solar expansions to ensure a consistent upward trajectory in clean electricity production.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade