In Bulgaria, electricity consumption from September 2025 to August 2026 reveals a strong reliance on low-carbon energy sources, contributing to more than three-quarters of the total electricity generation. The nuclear sector alone is responsible for nearly 40% of this clean energy output. Solar energy, providing 19%, and hydropower at almost 12% complement the low-carbon mix. Wind and biofuels add small but essential contributions, totaling more than 6%. On the other hand, fossil fuels account for roughly a quarter of the electricity mix, with coal being the dominant fossil source, making up about 19%, while gas contributes close to 5%.

Is Electricity Growing in Bulgaria?

Despite the promising growth in low-carbon electricity, overall electricity consumption in Bulgaria shows a concerning decline compared to previous records. The total electricity consumption as of 2026 is 5710 kWh per person, which is a decrease of 1173 kWh from the historic peak of 6883 kWh per person back in 2011. On a more positive note, low-carbon electricity generation has hit a new high with 4313 kWh per person, which is an increase of 345 kWh from the previous record set just a year earlier in 2025. This boost in clean energy usage is commendable, but the overall declining trend in total consumption is worrying, as it suggests that Bulgaria might not be adapting quickly enough to rising energy demands.

Suggestions

To continue the upward trajectory of low-carbon electricity, Bulgaria should prioritize the expansion of its already significant solar and nuclear energy sectors. Drawing inspiration from regions such as France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy dominates the electricity mix, Bulgaria could similarly enhance its nuclear capacity. For solar, learning from states like Nevada and regions like Lebanon and California, which are increasing their solar outputs significantly, can provide practical strategies for expansion. Wind energy should not be overlooked either, as countries like Lithuania demonstrate that enhancing wind energy can substantially bolster a country’s clean energy portfolio.

History

Historically, Bulgaria has seen fluctuating trends in low-carbon electricity generation, particularly in the nuclear sector. The early 1980s witnessed a robust expansion with significant increases in nuclear capacity. However, in the early 2000s, there were critical setbacks, notably in 2003 and 2007, when nuclear generation experienced sharp declines. Recent years, fortunately, show a recovery with growth in solar energy, especially in 2024, and positive contributions from hydropower in 2026. Such efforts need to be sustained and amplified to ensure that Bulgaria continues to build a robust and resilient low-carbon electricity infrastructure, addressing any past setbacks with decisive initiatives in the nuclear and solar fields.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Sep 2025 – Aug 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.