In 2025, Bulgaria's electricity consumption comprises a significant majority of low-carbon sources, with clean energy accounting for more than two-thirds of the total electricity generated. A substantial 40% of this clean electricity comes from nuclear power, making it the backbone of Bulgaria's low-carbon strategy. Solar energy also plays a notable role, contributing almost a fifth to the total electricity mix. Hydropower and wind add smaller fractions, nearing 8% and 3% respectively. Fossil fuels, however, still make up about a third of the total electricity consumed, with coal at 26% and gas contributing just over 5%. This indicates a promising, yet incomplete, transition towards a sustainable electricity supply, as fossil fuels continue to hold a considerable share.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, ENTSOE, Eurostat and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Bulgaria?
Electricity consumption in Bulgaria has seen a downturn when compared to its historical high. The 2025 data shows that the average consumption is 5482 kWh/person, a significant reduction from 6883 kWh/person recorded in 2011. This decline of 1401 kWh/person is concerning, especially in light of increasing global needs for electricity due to electrification and other technological advancements. Furthermore, the generation of low-carbon electricity per person has also seen a slight decrease from its previous peak of 3823 kWh/person in 2024 to 3767 kWh/person in 2025. Such stagnation highlights the urgent need for Bulgaria to revamp its strategies for boosting electricity generation, particularly from clean energy sources.
Suggestions
To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Bulgaria should focus on expanding nuclear and solar energy production, given their already significant contributions. By looking at successful examples from other countries, Bulgaria can gain valuable insights. France has succeeded in generating 70% of its electricity from nuclear, suggesting a viable path for Bulgaria to further enhance its nuclear capacity. For solar energy, regions like Nevada, which generates 33% of its electricity from solar, and California, at 29%, provide robust examples of effective solar utilization. By drawing lessons from these regions, Bulgaria can enhance its solar infrastructure, promoting a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. Wind energy, with successful implementations in countries like Denmark and Iowa, could also be considered to diversify and further green Bulgaria's electricity mix.
History
Historically, Bulgaria's journey in low-carbon electricity has been marked by fluctuations, particularly in nuclear power generation. In the 1980s, there was significant growth with notable increases in 1981 and 1983. However, the early 1990s saw declines, followed by gains and losses around the turn of the century. Worryingly, in 2003 and 2007, the country saw substantial declines in nuclear generation. Yet, there was a positive change again in 2014, which shows a pattern of recovery. Recently, solar energy has started to make gains, with 2024 marking a promising boost of 1.8 TWh. Hydro energy has also experienced variations, contributing positively in some years, like 2010 and 2018, but witnessing declines in others. These shifts underline the importance of consistent growth and investment in stable low-carbon sources, particularly nuclear, to sustain and bolster Bulgaria's clean electricity infrastructure.
