Bulgaria’s net electricity exports reached approximately 3.5 TWh by early October, up 62% from 2.16 TWh a year earlier. The increase was linked to rising renewable output helping generation run ahead of domestic demand.
Total electricity production rose 12.24%, while consumption increased 8.45%. The gap between output and demand widened, supporting larger volumes for neighbouring markets.
Renewables and storage drive higher generation surplus
Renewable generation reached 11.5 TWh, almost 34% higher than a year earlier. The Association for Production, Storage and Trading of Electricity, APSTE, said renewables accounted for nearly 80% of the increase in overall production.
Battery discharge also expanded sharply, with storage systems delivering approximately 1,720 GWh to the network through October 4. In the corresponding period of 2025, deliveries were around 190 GWh.
The additional discharge reflects electricity shifted between periods rather than a separate primary energy source. APSTE said the growing contribution helps more daytime production reach the market during higher-demand evening hours.
Summer export support from constrained regional generation
Bulgaria maintained exports during summer when heat and low Danube water levels constrained generation elsewhere. Nuclear output from Kozloduy also supported supply during these periods.
Winter outlook depends on a different supply mix
APSTE warned that solar and batteries alone cannot resolve the winter balance. During winter, solar production declines while demand rises.
The association called for faster wind development to complement the expanding solar fleet. It said maintaining export gains through winter will require a different seasonal supply mix, with changes in how generation is balanced across periods.
