On September 26, the European Commission announced that it has initiated a new infringement case against Bulgaria for not adhering to EU regulations designed to simplify permitting processes for renewable energy projects. This announcement was part of the Commission’s latest package of infringement actions, which identified Bulgaria as one of 26 member states that failed to communicate the transposition of the revised Renewable Energy Directive by the July 1 deadline.
The revised directive aims to streamline and accelerate permitting procedures for both renewable energy projects and the infrastructure needed to integrate additional renewable energy into the electricity system. Key provisions include establishing clear time limits for permit-granting processes, enhancing the role of a single contact point for applications, and recognizing renewable energy projects and associated grid infrastructure as being of overriding public interest.
The Commission’s formal notice gives Bulgaria a two-month period to respond; failure to do so could lead to the next stage of the infringement proceedings, where the Commission may issue a reasoned opinion.
