North Macedonia is operating with reservoirs that are approximately 70% full. The stored water level is described as sufficient to maintain planned hydropower production and support the stability of the national electricity system. The Ministry of Energy said reservoir management continues to follow operating plans that balance near-term generation with preserving water for later periods. The ministry added that this approach matters because hydropower provides both electricity and ancillary services, including rapid balancing and frequency support.
Generation coverage in May 2026
Official data show that North Macedonia generated 462,653 MWh of electricity in May 2026. The same figures indicate coverage of approximately 96.5% of domestic demand. The Ministry said the domestic supply position is stronger than in periods when the country has relied heavily on regional imports.
Hydro and wind output trends
State-owned producer ESM reported that hydropower generation increased by 76% year on year. ESM also said wind production rose by approximately 10%. The company linked the higher hydro output to improved water availability and operational planning. It also noted that preserving reservoirs remains important through the rest of the summer.
Why reservoir levels matter for dispatch
The Ministry said a 70% filling level provides flexibility, while it should not be treated as surplus water for unrestricted generation. It said reservoir value depends on seasonal inflows, electricity-price expectations, environmental obligations, and maintaining reserves for winter demand. The ministry added that hydropower can be dispatched rapidly during peak-price hours. It said preserving water for those periods can produce higher revenue than continuous operation when regional solar output depresses daytime prices.
Monitoring weather and hydrology through summer
The Ministry said it is coordinating with ESM and power-system institutions to monitor weather forecasts, reservoir levels, and hydrological conditions. It said this monitoring is becoming more important as heatwaves and irregular rainfall create wider differences between wet and dry years. The ministry also stated that North Macedonia’s stronger hydrological position helps buffer against regional volatility.
The Ministry added that this position can reduce expensive imports during scarcity hours. It also said it may enable exports when neighbouring markets experience evening deficits.
