Data published by the Albanian Institute of Statistics (INSTAT) show that Albania’s electricity sector expanded in the first quarter of 2026. Total generation reached 3,647 GWh, up 63.2% year-on-year from 2,234 GWh in the same period of the previous year. The increase was recorded for January to March 2026.
Exports and imports shift the trade balance
Electricity exports rose by 105.4% in the January–March 2026 period, reaching 1,503 GWh. Over the same timeframe, imports fell by 57.4% to 327 GWh. The figures indicate a stronger export position alongside lower import volumes.
Hydropower dominates generation mix
Hydropower accounted for about 93% of Albania’s total electricity production in the first quarter. Of that output, 45.7% came from state-owned hydropower plants, while 47.3% was produced by privately owned facilities. The generation mix therefore reflects a split between public and private hydro assets.
Consumption growth and higher network losses
Domestic electricity consumption increased to 1,954 GWh, representing a 9.1% year-on-year rise during the same quarter. At the same time, electricity network losses climbed by 7.7%, reaching 515 GWh in January–March 2026 compared with 478 GWh a year earlier. The loss increase points to continued distribution efficiency challenges during the period.
