The Bulgarian government will provide state guarantees for loans totaling €127.3 million to support Bulgartransgaz’ investment in the Vertical Gas Corridor. The cabinet approved draft agreements with Investbank and United Bulgarian Bank to finance the expansion of the country’s natural gas transmission system.
The loans, set to be disbursed by 15 December, will partially fund the project, with repayment beginning five years after 1 January 2027 following a grace period. The expansion will increase capacity at the Kulata–Sidirokastro interconnection with Greece and the Negru Voda–Cardam link with Romania.
The Vertical Gas Corridor, included in Bulgartransgaz’ ten-year development plan and the long-term strategy of the European Network of Transmission System Operators for Gas, is part of a broader regional initiative involving operators from Bulgaria, Greece, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia, Ukraine, and Moldova.
The project is considered strategic for southeastern Europe, aiming to enhance energy security, diversify gas import routes, and promote a competitive, integrated regional gas market.
