Week 27 SEE net imports rise
Cross-border electricity flows across Southeast Europe tightened significantly during Week 27, with regional net imports increasing sharply. Total SEE net electricity imports climbed 28.2% week on week, rising from 972 GWh to 1.25 TWh. The change pointed to a higher need for external supply as consumption increased and renewable output fell, reducing domestic generation availability.
Import demand increases in Hungary, Romania and Serbia
Hungary recorded the largest rise in import demand, with net imports surging 157.9% to 202 GWh. Romania followed with a 44.8% increase to 194 GWh. Serbia moved from a marginal net import position of 7 GWh in Week 26 to 90 GWh in Week 27.
Day-ahead prices higher in key importing markets
The three countries with the strongest import growth were also among the highest-priced power markets in Southeast Europe during the reporting period. Average day-ahead prices reached EUR 164.31/MWh in Romania, EUR 162.04/MWh in Hungary and EUR 139.93/MWh in Serbia. With imports rising into already expensive markets, price support was maintained when surplus electricity from neighbouring systems was less available.
Narrowing export balances from Greece, Bulgaria and Türkiye
Main exporting countries supplied less electricity to neighbouring markets during the week. Greece, Bulgaria and Türkiye remained net exporters, but their export balances narrowed. Greece’s net exports fell from 254 GWh to 115 GWh, a decline of 54.7%, while Bulgaria and Türkiye also recorded lower export surpluses.
Implications for cross-border trading and monitoring flows
The shift in flow patterns affects electricity trading conditions across the region. Continued growth in import demand from Hungary, Romania and Serbia alongside reduced export availability from neighbouring markets could keep regional price premiums elevated. Alternatively, stronger generation in exporting markets or weaker regional demand would likely reduce import dependence and narrow price spreads.
Tight market conditions remain under review
The cross-border flow picture continued to indicate a tight Southeast European power market. Hungary, Romania and Serbia remained the region’s principal import-driven markets for Week 27. Developments in Greece, Bulgaria and Türkiye were highlighted as key factors for whether regional supply conditions tighten further or improve.