Electricity in Slovakia in 2023/2024

Slovakia has made impressive strides in clean energy, as more than 87% of its electricity comes from low-carbon sources. The lion's share is produced by nuclear power, which accounts for a notable 60% of electricity generation. Hydropower follows with a contribution of just over 21%. On the other side of the spectrum, fossil fuels make up less than 10% of the electricity mix, with gas contributing almost 7%, and coal and oil contributing less than 3% combined. Biofuels and solar energy have a minor presence, each responsible for less than 3% of the electricity generation. Additionally, Slovakia's status as a net exporter of electricity benefits neighboring countries by enabling them to lower their overall emissions. Moving forward, increased electricity demand due to sectoral electrification will necessitate further expansion of low-carbon electricity generation to sustain these achievements.

Suggestions

To further increase low-carbon electricity generation, Slovakia should consider expanding its existing nuclear facilities, which already account for the majority of its low-carbon electricity. Given the high reliability and substantial output of nuclear energy, additional reactors could provide the necessary capacity to meet future demands. Concurrently, investing in solar energy can diversify Slovakia's energy portfolio and complement the stable supply provided by nuclear power. Initiatives to upgrade and enhance hydropower capacity should also be pursued where feasible. This multifaceted approach will help ensure a resilient and clean electricity grid capable of supporting sustainable economic growth and lowering carbon emissions.

History

Historically, Slovakia's significant progress in low-carbon electricity is evident through notable milestones. In the mid-1980s, nuclear energy saw a substantial increase, particularly in 1986 with a rise of 2.3 TWh. The 1990s were marked by both gains and setbacks: nuclear power rose by 1.1 TWh in 1994 and then faced a decline in 1995. The turn of the millennium brought further developments, with a major boost in nuclear power in 2000, adding 3.4 TWh, despite some declines in subsequent years. The 2010s continued this trend with mixed results for hydro, including a notable decline in 2011. Recently, in 2023, nuclear generation increased by 2.4 TWh while hydropower saw an additional increase of 1.8 TWh in 2023/2024. These historical trends underscore the importance of ongoing investments in nuclear and other low-carbon technologies for maintaining and enhancing Slovakia's leading position in clean electricity generation.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Maximum Imports

Data Sources