The Institute of Energy for Southeastern Europe (IENE) has issued a warning about the risk of widespread power outages across the region during the upcoming summer months due to rising electricity consumption. This alert follows a similar blackout event last June that impacted Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and parts of Croatia.
In its analysis, IENE highlights that Southeastern Europe remains vulnerable to network instability, depending on various conditions. However, the report stresses that these risks can be mitigated through effective planning, regional cooperation, and timely investments—measures essential for creating a safer and more sustainable energy future. The study was partly inspired by recent blackouts in Spain and Portugal.
A notable vulnerability lies in Greece’s energy mix, where approximately 45% of annual electricity is generated from renewable sources. On days with strong solar or wind production, renewables can supply up to 80% of the demand. While this is environmentally positive, it poses challenges for maintaining grid stability.
Professor Nedim Suljic explained that the Balkan energy network operates like interconnected vessels—issues in one area quickly affect others. He recalled that the major blackout last summer was caused by excessive strain on the system during a heatwave, which increased electricity demand for cooling homes and businesses. This overload led to failures in some transmission lines. When a key line goes offline—especially those handling cross-border electricity flows—it can trigger a cascade as protective mechanisms shut down other lines to prevent damage.
Suljic warned that similar problems are likely to occur again this summer. Rising temperatures will boost electricity demand, yet no significant upgrades have been made to the transmission infrastructure.
He also pointed to deeper, systemic problems, particularly in Bosnia and Herzegovina, where energy sector investment has stagnated for years. Political interference and widespread corruption have hindered progress, with state-level political disputes blocking projects essential to strengthening the transmission network. Decisions are often influenced by party interests rather than national priorities.
Suljic emphasized the urgent need for a unified energy strategy that integrates the electricity systems of the former Yugoslav republics with those of the European Union. This vision aligns with the Energy Community’s goals, which promote increased regional cooperation and integration into the EU energy market.
