Hydropower and solar rise as thermal output falls in North Macedonia’s February power mix

North Macedonia’s power system showed a clear change in its generation balance in February 2026, with hydropower and solar contributing more as thermal output contracted. The shift matters for investors and grid planners because it affects fuel demand, operating margins for conventional plants, and the country’s dependence on imports.

Demand and domestic coverage

Total electricity consumption reached 700,715 MWh in February 2026, according to the State Statistical Office of North Macedonia. Natural gas consumption was 32.95 million cubic meters. Domestic production covered 83.2% of electricity demand, while nearly all coal use—about 99.9%—was directed to electricity generation.

Production declines, led by weaker thermal generation

Gross electricity production totaled 583,152 MWh, down 6.7% year-on-year. Thermal power plants generated 166,976 MWh (28.6% of total), but output fell 43.7% compared with February 2025.

Hydropower surge lifts renewable share

Hydropower plants produced 178,448 MWh (30.6%), rising 102.4% year-on-year. The data reflects improved water availability and stronger hydro performance.

CHP output softer; wind stable; distributed solar grows

Combined heat and power (CHP) plants contributed 125,612 MWh (21.5%), down 13.9%. Wind farms generated 29,893 MWh (5.13%). Biogas output was recorded at 2,630 MWh.

Solar accounted for 79,594 MWh (13.6%) of total production when including prosumers, underscoring the expanding role of distributed renewable generation within the overall supply mix.

Lower trade activity alongside changing supply structure

Electricity imports declined to 154,600 MWh from 206,024 MWh a year earlier. Exports also fell materially to 37,037 MWh compared with 84,092 MWh in February 2025.

Taken together, the figures indicate a move toward greater reliance on hydropower and solar alongside reduced dependence on thermal generation and lower cross-border electricity trade activity during the month.