Over the recent 12-month period, from September 2024 to August 2025, Slovenia's electricity consumption has been marked by a dominant reliance on low-carbon energy sources. More than two-thirds of its electricity is derived from low-carbon sources, with nuclear power contributing slightly over a third and hydropower almost a third. Fossil energy accounts for just over a sixth of the electricity supply, comprised mainly of coal and gas, while solar power makes up a small fraction. Additionally, Slovenia supplements its electricity needs through net imports, which round out the remainder of its energy mix. This distribution underscores Slovenia's commitment to reducing fossil energy reliance by prioritizing low-carbon electricity generation.
Is Electricity Growing in Slovenia?
Despite these efforts, the overall electricity consumption in Slovenia is witnessing a downward trend. The latest per capita consumption of 7,881 kWh is noticeably lower than the 8,471 kWh recorded in 2014, indicating a reduction of nearly 600 kWh per person. In terms of low-carbon electricity, the reduction is even more pronounced, having decreased by more than 1,100 kWh per person compared to the peak in 2014. This decline is concerning as it suggests that Slovenia's electricity needs are not being met with the level of clean growth expected to support future demands like electrification and the expansion of AI technologies. To keep pace with modern energy requirements, Slovenia will need to significantly increase its clean electricity generation.
Suggestions
To propel low-carbon electricity generation forward, Slovenia should consider expanding its nuclear capabilities, taking a cue from countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear power plays a substantial role in clean electricity supply. Additionally, embracing the successes of solar electricity in countries like Greece and Lebanon could help boost Slovenia’s solar capacity. By harnessing the potential of both nuclear and solar, Slovenia can enhance its clean energy capacities. Drawing inspiration from these regions’ progressive clean energy strategies, Slovenia could effectively balance and diversify its electricity portfolio, ensuring sustainable growth and reduced reliance on fossil energy.
History
From a historical viewpoint, Slovenia has made various strides and faced setbacks in low-carbon electricity generation. During the 1990s and early 2000s, hydroelectricity witnessed prominent growth, with significant increases occurring in 2004 and after 2013. However, the country has experienced fluctuations, such as the noticeable declines in nuclear generation in the early 2010s. Despite recent declines in solar and hydro generation in 2025, Slovenia is encouraged to maintain focus on expanding its low-carbon infrastructure. While hydroelectric projects have historically provided boosts, the nation would benefit immensely from increasing investments in nuclear and solar projects to ensure a steady and sustainable electricity supply. By doing so, Slovenia stands to achieve a robust low-carbon energy future, safeguarding its electricity needs against climate and fossil fuel-related challenges.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.