Bulgarian Minister of Energy Zhecho Stankov emphasized the government’s commitment to stabilizing and developing the energy sector. He confirmed that if market liberalization proceeds as planned on July 1, 2025, electricity prices will remain unchanged due to a compensation mechanism through the Electricity System Security Fund. A draft law has been prepared to compensate households and increase penalties for electricity distribution companies to 25,000 euros for failing to meet obligations. The Energy and Water Regulatory Commission (KEVR) will also ensure that 30 percent of companies’ investments are directed toward infrastructure improvements.
Key government priorities include enhancing energy connectivity, investing in new infrastructure, diversifying supply sources, expanding nuclear power, adopting green technologies and storage solutions, and promoting oil and gas exploration in Bulgaria’s Black Sea region.
Nuclear energy remains a critical part of Bulgaria’s strategy. Kozloduy NPP – New Build has signed an engineering contract with a consortium of Westinghouse and Hyundai to construct an AP1000 reactor, which would make Bulgaria the first European country to operate this type of reactor.
Regarding coal, Bulgaria plans to keep coal plants operational until 2038, as outlined in its long-term strategy. Coal power remains essential, particularly during high-demand periods, such as last winter when coal plants generated up to 60 percent of electricity consumption, which peaked at nearly 8,000 megawatt-hours.
The government aims to position Bulgaria as a regional leader in green energy production. Accelerating the integration of European renewable energy regulations is a priority. A key step was taken last week when the electricity transmission system operator ESO, Bulgarian Development Bank, employer organizations, and the National Association of Municipalities signed a Memorandum of Cooperation. This initiative will accelerate renewable energy deployment in public buildings, allowing schools, kindergartens, hospitals, municipalities, and businesses to achieve greater energy independence.
