Bulgaria’s Energy and Water Regulatory Commission (EWRC) has approved an average electricity price increase of 8.42% for household consumers, effective from January 1, 2025. This adjustment occurs mid-way through the ongoing 12-month regulatory period, which began on July 1, 2024, and will continue until June 30, 2025. The new prices will remain in place until the end of the current period.
The increase only affects the regulated segment of the market, which currently covers household consumers. While Bulgaria has delayed the full liberalization of the electricity market multiple times, it is now set for full market opening by July 1, 2025.
The primary reason for the price hike is the projected 23% rise in the baseload electricity price, largely due to increased consumption in the regulated sector. The state-owned Maritsa Iztok 2 coal power plant is a major provider for this sector. The price changes will differ slightly depending on the region and electricity supplier:
- Consumers in western Bulgaria (served by Elektrohold) will face an 8.36% increase.
- Those in southern Bulgaria (served by EVN) will pay 8.39% more.
- Customers in northern Bulgaria (served by Energo-Pro) will see an 8.55% rise in their bills.
