Covering over 140 hectares, the new solar power plant in Tsenovo, northeastern Bulgaria, is now the eighth-largest solar facility in the country, contributing to a growing trend in solar energy development. Just under two years ago, it would have held the title of the largest solar installation in Bulgaria.
With an installed capacity of 113 MW, the plant’s connection to the grid is limited to 80 MW. It features more than 181,000 photovoltaic modules, with an expected annual electricity generation of 177 GWh—enough to power over 48,000 households. Developed by Enery Element, a partnership between Enery and Element Power RE, the plant aims to provide green, affordable electricity to businesses via long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs).
The primary customer for the electricity generated is KCM, a lead and zinc producer, which will source about 10% of its annual energy needs—approximately 40 GWh—from the solar facility. Enery has also established virtual PPAs with Orange Romania Group and Dreher Breweries.
Financially, the project has received significant backing, with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) guaranteeing €25 million of a €67 million loan from UniCredit Bulbank. The total investment in the project amounts to €70 million, rising to €85 million when including the substation and additional infrastructure.
Additionally, Enery is exploring the possibility of integrating a battery energy storage system to enhance the plant’s capabilities. The company currently produces nearly 700 GWh of electricity annually from 490 MW of renewable energy capacity and has a project pipeline exceeding 8 GW across 11 countries.
