In 2025, Serbia's electricity landscape is predominantly driven by fossil fuels, accounting for more than half of the total electricity consumption, with coal alone contributing a significant majority. Meanwhile, low-carbon sources such as hydropower and wind only provide a little more than a quarter of the electricity. Hydropower remains the backbone of Serbia's clean energy, contributing just under a quarter. Wind energy contributes an increasingly notable share, albeit still modest. Additionally, net imports and gas together make up a small fraction of the electricity mix. The reliance on fossil fuels raises environmental concerns due to the associated challenges of climate change and air pollution, underlining the urgent need for a transition towards cleaner energy options.
Data sources used on this page include ENTSOE, Eurostat and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Serbia?
Serbia's electricity consumption in 2025 sees a slight decrease from its peak in 2023. The country's per capita electricity use is approximately 5483 kWh, reflecting a modest decline from the previous record two years prior. Of greater concern is the reduction in low-carbon electricity generation, with per capita contributions witnessing a significant drop of around 498 kWh. This decline in clean energy penetration is disheartening, emphasizing the critical need for strategic efforts to bolster low-carbon electricity generation, vital for environmental sustainability, economic growth, and energy independence.
Suggestions
To uplift its low-carbon electricity generation, Serbia has much to learn from successful regions that emphasize the use of solar, wind, and nuclear power. Countries like Slovakia and France have nearly two-thirds of their electricity generated from nuclear energy, showcasing the potential of nuclear power as a stable and reliable energy source. Denmark and Iowa stand out for their robust wind energy outputs, offering lessons in advancing wind technology. North Macedonia demonstrates rapid solar integration, producing nearly half of its electricity from solar. By investing in nuclear power plants and expanding solar capacity, Serbia can significantly increase its clean energy transition, helping reduce dependence on fossil fuels and fostering a sustainable energy future.
History
Reflecting on Serbia's history with low-carbon electricity, the data reveal a fluctuating journey driven by hydropower variations. In the 1990s and 2000s, hydropower experienced notable ups and downs, with several years of gains offset by periods of decline. More recently, the years post-2010 have shown increased volatility, with 2023 witnessing a temporary surge followed by declines in 2024 and 2025. These fluctuations highlight a pressing need for diversified energy investments. Emphasizing stable and reliable sources like nuclear energy and solar power can insulate Serbia from hydropower volatility and support continued sustainable energy advancement. The future of Serbia’s low-carbon electricity infrastructure demands careful planning and strategic investments to ensure both stability and growth.
