Energy Transition. The Slovak Way.

Does Slovakia share the same priorities as Germany?

This question came from a Contact in my LinkedIn Community, who suggested Slovakia in my LinkedIn poll for my “summer holiday edition postings.” It was a challenge because, to be honest, I didn’t know much about the country. Slovakia? Somewhere between the Tatras, the Danube, and EU accession. But as so often, a second look is worthwhile and that’s exactly what I took.

From Troubled Child to Power Exporter

Slovakia only became independent in 1993, after the peaceful “Velvet Divorce” from the Czech Republic. What followed was a difficult start: political instability, economic upheaval, and the image of the “problem child of Central Europe.” Only from 1998 onwards did the situation visibly improve with EU accession in 2004, growing market economy, and better international integration.

Today, Slovakia is part of the European single market, a NATO member and from an energy perspective a surprisingly progressive player. But the path to that point was far from straightforward.

Photovoltaics: Steady Growth Over the Years

Slovakia’s PV sector is currently experiencing a historic boom. With 274 MW of new capacity in 2024, the total capacity now exceeds 1.1 GW.

What’s surprising: it’s not large state-driven projects but rather businesses and households that are driving the growth. Partly because prices for electricity from conventional sources within the country are relatively high. The subsidies are comparatively clear and easy to understand (e.g. Green Households Program). Compared to Germany, bureaucracy is overall less paralyzing, at least for private or small-scale commercial systems.

According to the industry association SAPI, another 300 MW could be added in 2025. The transformation is also geographically visible: commercial rooftops, homes, and small-scale installations dominate the landscape.

Wind Energy: Political Blockade Despite Real Potential

Wind energy in Slovakia is hindered by institutional barriers, resulting in only 3 MW of installed capacity. Unchanged since about 2003. That’s less than 0.01% of electricity generation.

A restrictive regulation from the public health authority (e.g. 3 km setback from residential areas) has effectively halted all expansion despite high wind potential. The NECP goals (500 MW by 2030) remain wishful thinking.

E-Mobility & Charging: Rapid Expansion Thanks to EU Integration & Strategy

The number of public charging points rose from 2,424 at the end of 2024 to 2,818 by June 2025. An increase of more than 16% in just six months.

And: The government is planning a nationwide roll-out of an ultra-fast charging network. It includes 228 charging points (approx. 50 - 70 locations) at 300 - 400 kW along the TEN-T corridors, implemented by MH Invest using EU funds.

The reasons for this growth include a clear national strategy (16-point e-mobility plan), EU funding & recovery plan, and strong participation of private providers (SEVA members such as ZSE Drive). The country was therefore well prepared and recorded a 53% increase in EV sales in 2024 (over 15,400 vehicles). However, the relative share of EV registrations remains below the EU average (approx. 5 - 6% in 2024).

Back to the Original Question…

Does Slovakia share the same priorities as Germany?

Yes and no.

• Strong focus on PV and charging infrastructure: Slovakia, like Germany, prioritizes solar energy, grid upgrades, and e-mobility rollout. The focus is on fast, incentive-driven implementation through clear EU-backed programs.
• Less wind power, citizen participation, and sustainability communication: Wind power is nearly absent in Slovakia due to strict regulations and geographic factors. Citizen-led projects and narrative-driven sustainability efforts are not yet widespread.
• Strategic understanding of EU integration and supply security: Slovakia shares Germany’s focus on energy sovereignty and EU integration. Infrastructure investments aim to strengthen resilience through cross-border connectivity and diversification.
• Pragmatic approach instead of ideological energy transition: Slovakia follows a hands-on strategy: low complexity, quick wins, clear governance. Grand ideological visions are secondary to practical, EU-compatible progress.

One Final Thought:

Slovakia’s decision to end subsidies for renewables by 2026 may seem like a step backwards at first glance. And yet: the expansion of PV, charging infrastructure, and storage continues steadily.

Could it be strategically smart to enter the market now, despite these political signals?What’s your take on this?

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