Electricity in North Macedonia in 2023/2024

Over the past twelve months, from October 2023 to September 2024, North Macedonia's electricity consumption has relied heavily on fossil fuels, with more than half of the electricity (59.55%) generated from fossil-based sources. Coal alone accounted for over 40% of the total electricity, while gas contributed around 19%. Besides fossil fuels, the country also imported a significant amount of electricity, approximately 21% of the total consumption. Low-carbon or clean energy sources made up only about 19% of the electricity supply, with hydropower responsible for most of it at around 17.5%, and wind energy contributing a modest 1.6%.

Suggestions

To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, North Macedonia can follow the examples of countries that have successfully increased their share of clean, green energy. Similar countries in the region, such as Bulgaria and Slovenia, have showcased the efficacy of nuclear energy, contributing 42% and 33% of electricity, respectively, from this source. Furthermore, Denmark has demonstrated the potential of wind energy, where it accounts for a remarkable 61% of electricity generation. Learning from these countries, North Macedonia can invest in advanced nuclear reactors and expand its wind energy infrastructure, which will help reduce reliance on fossil fuels, mitigate climate change, and decrease air pollution.

History

Historically, hydroelectric power has played a crucial role in North Macedonia's low-carbon electricity generation. In the early years, such as 1991, there was an increase of 0.4 TWh in hydroelectricity, but the period following saw fluctuations, including a decrease of 0.3 TWh in 1993 and an increase of 0.3 TWh in 1999. The most notable growth occurred in 2010 with an increase of 1.2 TWh. However, the nation also experienced several declines, like the reductions in 2007 (-0.6 TWh) and more recently in 2023/2024 (-0.6 TWh). In the past year, a new source of low-carbon electricity emerged with the addition of 0.3 TWh from solar in 2023, highlighting the beginning of diversification in clean energy sources for North Macedonia.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Maximum Imports

Data Sources