In 2025, diesel fuel has solidified its position as the leading energy source in North Macedonia, constituting over 74% of the nation’s total fuel consumption, according to the latest report from the Energy Regulatory Commission (RKE). This trend underscores the country’s increasing energy demand and reliance on imported fuels.
The report indicates that unleaded petrol accounted for 11.74% of total fuel consumption, while fuel oil comprised 6.61%. Additionally, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) represented 5.22% of the fuel mix, highlighting its relatively minor yet significant role in the national energy landscape.
Overall fuel demand surged across various categories in 2025. Petrol consumption experienced an increase of 8.34% compared to 2024, while diesel usage rose by 5.17%. The RKE noted that LPG demand and extra-light heating oil consumption also saw growth. Conversely, jet fuel consumption plummeted by over 53%, alongside slight reductions in biodiesel and fuel oil usage.
North Macedonia’s heavy dependence on imported petroleum products is a critical factor in its energy strategy, given its limited domestic refining capacity. Approximately 87% of the country’s imported fuel originates from Greece, with Bulgaria supplying just over 9%. Smaller amounts come from Albania and Serbia, indicating a concentrated regional supply chain.
To enhance stability in fuel supply conditions for the coming decade, RKE President Aco Ristov announced the completion of a relicensing process for major oil companies in 2025. Concurrently, investigations are underway regarding allegations that some companies may have engaged in practices of purchasing discounted domestic fuel for resale in neighboring markets.
Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski revealed that authorities received reports suggesting that certain firms exported gasoline and diesel acquired at reduced prices from OKTA to other regional countries. While North Macedonia has not enacted restrictions on fuel exports or re-exports—unlike some neighboring nations—officials have cautioned against speculative trading behaviors.
Natural gas consumption in North Macedonia remains limited, with district heating plants and cogeneration facilities accounting for approximately 85% of total gas usage. Industrial consumers make up about 13%, while household consumption is minimal due to inadequate distribution infrastructure.
The RKE noted that eight companies imported natural gas last year, fostering increased competition within the market. Notably, Enerdzi Ekolink, based in Skopje and previously known as Toplana Skopje Sever, secured licenses for both heat production and supply operations.
The gas sector faces significant challenges due to underdeveloped infrastructure. Currently, there is no extensive national distribution network; existing pipelines primarily connect the Bulgarian border to Skopje and select industrial zones. Consequently, many regions and residential areas lack access to natural gas.
North Macedonia remains fully reliant on imported gas, predominantly sourced from Bulgaria. Despite ongoing discussions about gasification projects for several years, progress has been hindered by political, financial, and administrative obstacles, leaving the sector structurally lagging compared to its regional counterparts.
