Hydroelectricity in Albania

Albania is the biggest producer of hydroelectric energy in the world by percentage (90% as of 2011) and by own production (100%).^[1] Albania aims to increase its hydroelectric energy production to 100%.^[2] Some of the projects underway include Skavica, which generates up to 350 MW, Devolli which generates up to 400 MW, Vjosa which generates up to 400 MW, Kalivaci and Ashta which both generate up to 48 MW, and Valbona and Tropojë, which both generate up to 40 MW.

Albanian has more potential for hydroelectric energy, but the decision to build more dams is not an easy one, since the country remains steadfast in safeguarding its natural beauty.^[3] Moreover, the production profile in the country does not always align with the consumption profile; electricity demand in Albania peeks during spring and summer seasons, primarily due to tourism, when rainfall is lower and the dams have less water. In 2022, the net domestic production was 7,002 GWh, while the total consumption was 7,924 GWh; Albania had to import approximately 922 GWh to meet domestic demand. That year they imported 3,044 GWh during dry seasons and exported 2,123 GWh during rainy seasons. Albania is trying to become more energy independent by diversifying electricity generation.^[4]

References

^ "The Institute of Statistics (INSTAT)". Archived from the original on 2011-07-24. Retrieved 2011-03-22.
^ "Albania aims to be first green energy nation". New Europe. 22 May 2011. Retrieved 2020-10-08.
^ Magazine, Smithsonian; Osborne, Margaret. "One of Europe's Last Free-Flowing Rivers Declared a National Park". Smithsonian Magazine. Retrieved 2024-04-04.
^ "The Situation of the Power Sector and ERE Activity during 2022" (PDF). Energy Regulator Authority of Albania. March 2023.