The Bulgarian Government has placed high priority on expanding the Kozloduy nuclear power plant with two new reactors and developing four additional pump-storage hydropower facilities. These flagship projects aim to establish a secure, competitive, and environmentally friendly energy system aligned with EU climate objectives.
Energy Minister Zhecho Stankov announced that unit 7 at Kozloduy is scheduled to start operations in 2035, with unit 8 following two years later. Meanwhile, the Ministry is accelerating permit preparations and exploring public-private partnerships to bring the pump-storage plants online. A significant refurbishment of Chaira, the largest reversible hydropower plant in the Balkans, is also planned in the coming months. Aware of the social and economic challenges facing coal-dependent regions, the Government emphasizes the importance of sustainable strategies to support affected communities during the energy transition. Although lignite remains important for meeting baseload demands, Bulgaria is rapidly advancing toward low-carbon energy sources.
In addition to nuclear and hydro projects, Bulgaria is leading the development of a Vertical Gas Corridor to diversify supply routes and enhance regional energy security. Supported by Greece, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia, Moldova, and Ukraine, this strategic pipeline will transport natural gas northward—from Greece through Bulgaria and Romania to Hungary, Slovakia, and ultimately Moldova and Ukraine. Construction on the Bulgarian section between Kula and Kresna has progressed with 15 out of 48 kilometers installed, with most of the route cleared and prepared. The project is divided into three phases to boost gas flow capacity from Greece through Bulgaria and onward to Romania.
Looking beyond natural gas, Bulgaria envisions new green energy corridors to deliver affordable, zero-emission electricity from the Caspian region into Europe. By leveraging its strong grid interconnections, Bulgaria plans to transmit renewable power generated in Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkey across the Black Sea to the European continent. The Government is fast-tracking these vital gas and electricity projects to ensure reliable, accessible, and sustainable energy for consumers both in Bulgaria and across Europe.
