Cross-border electricity trade in Southeast Europe became more dynamic during Week 24, with regional balance described as more fragmented rather than a uniform supply shortage. Regional net imports increased by 121.0 GWh, or 10.3%, to 1.30 TWh. Flows adjusted to uneven generation patterns and shifting demand across individual markets.
Italy’s import position and regional price signals
Italy remained the central import hub of the regional system. Net imports into Italy rose by 130.9 GWh, or 13.8%, reaching 1.08 TWh. The increase was supported by a 6.7% rise in demand to 5.12 TWh, alongside a weekly average day-ahead price of €123.17/MWh, the highest in the Southeast European comparison.
The higher price level continued to draw electricity from surrounding markets, reinforcing Italy’s role as the key structural demand sink in the region. This pricing backdrop coincided with changes in cross-border flows tied to market-by-market demand and generation conditions.
Balkan exporters expand net export balances
Several Balkan markets strengthened their export positions during the week. Bulgaria recorded net exports rising by 41.3 GWh, or 103.2%. Greece more than doubled its net export balance, cutting net imports from 169.7 GWh to 61.9 GWh.
Türkiye also improved its export profile, with net exports increasing by 53.1%. The change was supported by strong growth in renewable generation, contributing to higher export availability from the market.
Mixed import trends across Hungary, Croatia, Serbia and Romania
Hungary remained a net importer but reduced reliance on external supply. Net imports were cut by 108.5 GWh, or 60.3%. Croatia recorded a modest improvement, with net imports declining by 8.9%.
Serbia maintained a broadly stable import position over the week, while Romania moved in the opposite direction. Romania’s net imports increased by 5.3%.
Drivers of regional power flows during Week 24
The overall trade structure showed Italy as the main commercial absorber of surplus electricity in Southeast Europe. Periods of stronger renewable generation in Türkiye and parts of the Balkans increased export availability across the region.
The direction and magnitude of surplus flows were still linked to Italian demand strength, regional price differentials, and interconnection constraints affecting cross-border transfers.