North Macedonia has declared a seven-day state of crisis regarding its electricity supply following disruptions to fuel oil deliveries from Greece. The decision, announced on December 25, 2025, allows the state-owned electricity company ESM to utilize national fuel oil reserves without compensation. This move comes as Greek farmers continue protests impacting border crossings and critical energy resource transportation.
The crisis declaration affects North Macedonia’s energy security, as a significant portion of its electricity generation relies on fuel oil and lignite sourced from Greece. According to the government in Skopje, the inability to secure these supplies prompted the emergency measure. The situation highlights the vulnerability of Balkan nations to regional disruptions in energy markets and agricultural protests.
North Macedonia Electricity Crisis: Root Causes and Government Response
ESM requested the state of crisis due to difficulties in obtaining both lignite and fuel oil. These difficulties stem from ongoing blockades imposed by Greek farmers at border crossings with North Macedonia, effectively halting the flow of essential energy resources. The government stated ESM is obligated to report fuel oil consumption to both the government and the Ministry of Finance.
Bulgaria has offered emergency fuel oil supplies to North Macedonia in response to the crisis, according to the Bulgarian government information service. This offer was communicated during a phone conversation between Bulgarian Foreign Minister Georg Georgiev and his North Macedonian counterpart Timčo Mucunski. This demonstrates regional cooperation in addressing the immediate energy shortfall.
Greek Farmer Protests and Regional Impact
The disruptions are a direct consequence of widespread protests by Greek farmers, which began in late November. These protests center around demands for increased government subsidies, tax relief, and guaranteed minimum prices for agricultural products. Farmers are also seeking compensation for rising costs related to fuel and fertilizers.
The demonstrations have involved the blocking of major roadways, including the Athens-Thessaloniki highway, and key border crossings with Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Turkey. This has significantly disrupted international freight traffic and, crucially, the supply of energy resources to neighboring countries. The protests reflect broader concerns within the agricultural sector regarding economic pressures and government support.
While travel restrictions were temporarily eased during the Christmas holiday period, protesters have vowed to intensify their actions. This suggests the disruptions to energy supplies, and potentially other trade, could continue in the new year. The situation is further complicated by the reliance of North Macedonia on imported energy resources.
Additionally, the crisis underscores the interconnectedness of energy markets in the Balkans. North Macedonia’s dependence on Greece for fuel oil highlights the need for diversification of energy sources and improved regional infrastructure. The International Energy Agency has consistently emphasized the importance of energy security in the region.
Implications for North Macedonia’s Energy Sector
Most of North Macedonia’s electricity is generated by ESM plants utilizing lignite and fuel oil. The current crisis forces the country to rely on its strategic reserves, a temporary solution. Long-term, the situation necessitates exploring alternative energy sources and strengthening energy infrastructure to reduce dependence on potentially unstable supply chains.
However, the use of state reserves is not without cost. While ESM will not be required to compensate the state for the fuel oil, the depletion of these reserves will require replenishment at a later date, potentially impacting the national budget. The government will need to carefully manage these resources and explore options for securing future supplies.
The situation also raises questions about the broader impact on North Macedonia’s economy. Disruptions to power generation could affect industrial production and economic growth. Monitoring the impact on businesses and consumers will be crucial in the coming weeks.
Looking ahead, the resolution of the Greek farmer protests is key to restoring normal energy supplies to North Macedonia. The ongoing negotiations between the Greek government and agricultural representatives will be closely watched. Furthermore, North Macedonia will likely accelerate efforts to diversify its energy sources and enhance its energy independence. Continued monitoring of the situation and proactive planning are essential to mitigate future risks to the nation’s electricity security.